Finasteride: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Buying Tips

Finasteride is one of the most common prescription pills for male pattern hair loss and an approved option for enlarged prostate (BPH). If you're thinking about it, you probably want straight answers: how it works, what to expect, and how to stay safe. This page gives clear, practical info so you can talk with your doctor more confidently.

How finasteride works and what to expect

Finasteride blocks an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase. That lowers dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that shrinks hair follicles and makes prostate tissue grow. For hair loss, doctors usually prescribe 1 mg daily. For BPH the dose is commonly 5 mg daily.

Don’t expect a quick fix. Most people see slowing of hair loss or visible regrowth after about 3 to 6 months. Full effects may take up to a year. If you stop the pill, any benefit typically fades within 6 to 12 months because DHT returns to previous levels.

Finasteride works best when started early—when hair is thinning but not gone. It won’t regrow a completely bald area, but it can thicken existing hair and slow further loss.

Safety, side effects and buying tips

Common side effects are sexual: lower libido, erectile difficulties, or changes in ejaculation. These effects are usually reversible after stopping the drug, but talk to your doctor if they persist. Some people report mood changes—discuss any depression or anxiety with your clinician before starting.

Women, especially pregnant women, should not take finasteride and should avoid handling broken tablets—exposure can harm a male fetus. If you're trying to father a child or have fertility concerns, mention this to your doctor; rare cases have linked finasteride to changes in sperm parameters.

Finasteride can affect PSA (prostate-specific antigen) levels used in prostate cancer screening. If you take finasteride, tell your doctor before PSA testing so results are interpreted correctly.

Buying tips: always use a licensed pharmacy and keep prescriptions current. Avoid super-cheap pills from unknown sites—counterfeits are common. Check for pharmacy reviews, clear contact info, and secure checkout. If buying online, require a valid prescription and wait for proper packaging and batch numbers. If a seller pressures you to skip a doctor visit or offers unrealistic discounts, walk away.

Practical starter checklist: get a baseline health check (including prostate and mood history), discuss fertility plans, expect a 3–6 month wait for results, and plan regular follow-ups. If side effects occur, report them early—often a dose change or stopping resolves issues.

Want a quick next step? Book a short consult with a primary care doctor or dermatologist, bring a list of other meds you take, and ask about monitoring plans. That puts you in control and reduces surprises while using finasteride.