Drug reference
finasteride
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Drug class
Genitourinary (5-a-Reductase Inhibitors)
Mechanism of action
Competitive and specific inhibitor of type II 5α-reductase, an intracellular enzyme that converts the androgen testosterone into DHT, In humans, finasteride preferably inhibits the type II isozyme. Using native tissues (scalp and prostate), the balding scalp contains miniaturized hair follicles and increased amounts of DHT compared with hairy scalp
Common side effects
- Erectile dysfunction
- Decrease libido
- Breast tenderness
- Breast enlargement
- Ejaculation disorder
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity Women of childbearing potential
Related conditions
Frequently asked questions
What drug class is finasteride?
finasteride belongs to: Genitourinary.
How does finasteride work?
Competitive and specific inhibitor of type II 5α-reductase, an intracellular enzyme that converts the androgen testosterone into DHT, In humans, finasteride preferably inhibits the type II isozyme. Using native tissues (scalp and prostate), the balding scalp contains miniaturized hair follicles and increased amounts of DHT compared with hairy scalp
What are the common side effects of finasteride?
Erectile dysfunction, Decrease libido, Breast tenderness, Breast enlargement, Ejaculation disorder
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