Fincar

Uses
Fincar (Finasteride) is in a class of medicines called 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, and it is widely prescribed for the treatment of an enlarged prostate gland in male patients. The active ingredient in this medicine is also used by many men as a hair loss treatment.

Men affected by BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia) suffer from a weak urine flow and frequent urination. These symptoms occur as a result of the prostate gland becoming enlarged. Treatment with this medicine aims to relieve these symptoms by causing the prostate gland to shrink.

The active ingredient in this medicine can also help to increase the growth of hair in adult men affected by male pattern hair loss (androgenic alopecia). In addition to this, it may stop the balding process. This is achieved by reducing the levels of a certain hormone (DHT or dihydrotestosterone) that can cause baldness in men.

Dosage and Administration
Fincar (Finasteride) comes in the form of tablets that contain 5mg of the active ingredient. You must see your doctor before treatment can commence, so that a suitable dosage can be prescribed. Adult males treating urination problems related to an enlarged prostate are generally instructed to take 5mg per day. Your doctor may wish to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment after 6 to 12 months, and if no improvements have been noticed, discontinuation of treatment may be required.

The adult dose prescribed for male pattern baldness (MPB) is 1mg per day. As these tablets contain 5mg of the active ingredient, taking one whole tablet as a single dose is not suitable, as this would result in too much of the active ingredient being taken. If you are treating hair loss, ask your doctor for more details about the correct dosage.

Side effects
Taking Fincar (Finasteride) tablets can possibly result in side effects, such as:

• Depression
• Pain affecting the testicles
• Breast swelling or tender breasts
• Being unable to maintain or achieve an erection
• A decreased volume of semen released during ejaculation

If any side effects occur, talk to your doctor. Serious side effects are also possible (but are less common). You will need immediate medical attention if this occurs.

Precautions
This medication is prescribed to adult men only. It should never be taken by women or children. In addition to this, pregnant women should avoid handling the tablets, as if they are crushed or broken, there is a risk of the medication being absorbed through the skin, which could damage the unborn baby.

While taking this drug, it is important to be aware that some side effects may be signs of male breast cancer, such as lumps on the breasts, a discharge from the nipples, breast pain and any other similar symptoms. See your doctor immediately if you notice any of these side effects.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Fincar (Finasteride) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.