Finasteride Medications

Finasteride belongs to the class of 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors and is most widely recognized for treating male pattern hair loss and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). By blocking the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), it reduces the hormonal driver of prostate enlargement and hair follicle miniaturisation. Commercially, the drug is marketed under the brand names Propecia® for alopecia and Proscar® for BPH, while numerous generic versions are readily available in our online pharmacy. In addition to these primary uses, clinicians sometimes employ finasteride off-label for conditions such as hirsutism in women, though such applications are not approved by regulatory agencies. Its predictable pharmacokinetic profile, once-daily oral dosing, and well-documented safety data have made finasteride a staple in both dermatology and urology practices across Singapore and worldwide.

What is Finasteride?

Finasteride is a synthetic steroidal inhibitor that selectively blocks type II 5-alpha-reductase, the enzyme responsible for converting testosterone into the more potent androgen dihydrotestosterone. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first approved the 5 mg tablet for benign prostatic hyperplasia in 1992, followed by the 1 mg formulation for androgenetic alopecia in 1997. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) granted similar approvals, and the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) of Singapore listed finasteride as a prescription-only medicine for the same indications. By lowering DHT levels in serum and target tissues, finasteride reduces prostate volume and slows hair loss progression.

Molecularly, finasteride binds to the active site of the type II isoenzyme, forming a stable NADP-dependent complex that renders the enzyme inactive. The resulting drop in DHT leads to decreased stimulation of androgen-dependent cells in the prostate and scalp. Because the drug does not affect estrogen pathways, its systemic hormonal impact remains limited, which contributes to its favorable tolerability profile.

Both branded pills-Proscar® and Propecia®-and a range of generic tablets are distributed through licensed pharmacies in Singapore. Patients can also purchase finasteride online, where price transparency and discreet shipping are increasingly valued.

How Finasteride Works

Mechanism of Action

Finasteride competitively inhibits type II 5-alpha-reductase, an intracellular enzyme located primarily in the prostate, hair follicles, and liver. By forming a reversible covalent bond with the enzyme’s NADPH co-factor, it prevents the enzymatic reduction of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). The reduction in DHT concentrations can be as high as 70 % in serum and up to 90 % within the prostate tissue.

Therapeutic Effects

Lower DHT levels translate directly into clinical benefits. In the prostate, reduced androgenic stimulation curtails stromal and epithelial cell proliferation, leading to a measurable decrease in prostate volume and improvement in urinary flow rates. In the scalp, diminished DHT exposure halts the miniaturisation of hair follicles, allowing existing hairs to thicken and new hairs to emerge. This dual effect underpins the two major finasteride uses: management of BPH symptoms and slowing of male pattern baldness.

Onset and Duration

Peak plasma concentrations are reached within 1-2 hours after oral ingestion, and steady-state levels are achieved after five to six days of daily dosing. Clinical improvement in urinary symptoms typically appears within six weeks, while noticeable hair regrowth may require three to six months of continuous therapy. The half-life of finasteride averages 5-7 hours, but its pharmacodynamic effect persists as long as the enzyme remains inhibited, which is why once-daily dosing maintains therapeutic DHT suppression.

Approved Uses and Applications

Approved Indications

• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): Reduces prostate size, improves urinary flow, and lowers the risk of acute urinary retention. The FDA and HSA endorse the 5 mg tablet for men with moderate to severe BPH.
• Androgenetic Alopecia (Male-Pattern Hair Loss): The 1 mg tablet is approved for men with vertex or frontotemporal hair thinning. Clinical trials have shown a statistically significant increase in hair count versus placebo after 12 months of treatment.

Off-Label Uses

Finasteride is occasionally prescribed off-label for:

• Female hirsutism: Low-dose regimens may reduce excess facial and body hair, though evidence remains limited and the practice is not officially sanctioned.
• Prostate cancer chemoprevention: Early studies suggested a reduction in low-grade prostate cancer incidence, but subsequent data highlighted an increased risk of high-grade disease, leading agencies to refrain from endorsing this use.

Clinical Efficacy

A pivotal double-blind, placebo-controlled trial published in The New England Journal of Medicine reported a 30 % reduction in International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) after six months of 5 mg finasteride therapy. In alopecia, a 5-year follow-up of the Propecia® studies demonstrated that 48 % of participants maintained or increased hair density, compared with 18 % in the placebo arm. These outcomes support finasteride’s status as a first-line oral option for both BPH and male-pattern hair loss.

Buying Finasteride from Our Online Pharmacy

Why Choose Our Service

Navigating medication availability in Singapore can be challenging, especially when generic alternatives are scarce or priced high. Our pharmacy service bridges that gap by offering a secure, regulated channel to obtain finasteride at competitive rates. Every order is processed under strict compliance with HSA guidelines, ensuring authenticity and safety.

Brand Names and Generic Options

• Proscar® (5 mg) - marketed for BPH.
• Propecia® (1 mg) - marketed for androgenetic alopecia.
• Generic Finasteride 1 mg and 5 mg tablets - manufactured by FDA-approved facilities and listed on the WHO Essential Medicines List.

Patients who buy finasteride online often report up to 40 % savings compared with brick-and-mortar pharmacies, particularly when opting for generic forms.

Quality & Safety

Our platform collaborates exclusively with licensed international pharmacies that adhere to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards and undergo regular audits by the WHO Pre-Qualification Programme. This network guarantees that each tablet meets potency and purity specifications.

Pricing & Access

Standard pricing for a 30-day supply of generic finasteride 1 mg starts at SGD 12, while the 5 mg formulation is available from SGD 18. Repeat customers enjoy a lifetime 10 % discount on all reorders, making long-term therapy more affordable.

Discreet Delivery

Orders ship in unmarked packaging to protect privacy. Express delivery reaches most Singaporean addresses within seven days; standard shipping arrives in three to four weeks. Tracking information is provided for every dispatch.

Dosing, Formulations & Administration

Available Formulations

Finasteride is supplied as oral tablets in two strengths:

• 1 mg tablets (commonly prescribed for alopecia)
• 5 mg tablets (used for BPH)

Both strengths are film-coated, swallow-ready tablets with no need for water temperature adjustments.

Typical Dosing Ranges

• BPH: Adults often start with a 5 mg tablet taken once daily. Clinicians may adjust the dose based on symptom severity and prostate volume measurements.
• Androgenetic Alopecia: A 1 mg tablet once daily constitutes the standard regimen. Some dermatologists may extend therapy beyond two years if hair growth stabilises and no adverse effects emerge.

These examples reflect common clinical practice; the exact dose must be individualized by a qualified healthcare professional.

Administration Guidelines

Finasteride may be taken with or without food; however, ingesting the tablet with a full glass of water can aid swallowing. Consistency in timing (e.g., every morning) helps maintain steady plasma levels. Patients should avoid crushing or chewing the tablet, as this could affect absorption.

Never alter the prescribed dose without consulting a clinician.

Safety Profile & Considerations

Common Side Effects

• Decreased libido: Reported in about 2-4 % of users.
• Erectile dysfunction: Observed in roughly 1-2 % of participants.
• Ejaculatory disorders: Includes reduced volume or altered sensation, affecting <2 % of patients.
• Breast tenderness or enlargement: Seen in ≤1 % of male users.
• Mild rash or pruritus: Occasionally reported, generally self-limiting.

These side effects are usually reversible after discontinuation.

Serious Adverse Events

Although rare, finasteride has been associated with:

• Persistent sexual dysfunction (post-finasteride syndrome) - incidence not well quantified, warrants immediate medical review.
• High-grade prostate cancer: A subgroup analysis in the Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial indicated a modest increase in aggressive cancer forms among long-term users.
• Allergic reactions such as angio-edema - require urgent emergency care.

Any sudden onset of breast lumps, nipple discharge, or severe allergic symptoms should prompt immediate evaluation.

Contraindications

Finasteride should not be used by:

• Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant-its teratogenic risk to a male fetus is established.
• Individuals with known hypersensitivity to finasteride or any tablet excipients.
• Patients with liver disease severe enough to impair drug metabolism, unless dose adjustments are made by a specialist.

Drug Interactions

Finasteride is metabolised principally by CYP3A4, making it susceptible to interactions with strong inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin) that may increase plasma concentrations. Concomitant use of other anti-androgens or hormonal therapies can amplify hormonal effects. Caution is advised when combining finasteride with anticoagulants, as rare reports of altered bleeding risk exist.

Special Populations

• Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Finasteride is contraindicated; women handling crushed tablets should wear gloves.
• Elderly: Renal and hepatic function typically decline with age; dose adjustments may be necessary for patients with moderate impairment.
• Renal/Hepatic Impairment: No formal dose reduction is required for mild dysfunction, but severe cases should be managed by a specialist.
• Pediatric Use: Not approved; safety and efficacy have not been established in children.

A thorough medical review remains essential before initiating therapy, especially in patients with multiple comorbidities.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How does finasteride differ from dutasteride? Finasteride selectively inhibits type II 5-alpha-reductase, while dutasteride blocks both type I and type II isoenzymes, resulting in a greater overall reduction of DHT. This broader inhibition can provide stronger prostate volume reduction but may increase the risk of side effects.

• How long before finasteride produces noticeable effects for hair loss? Patients typically see the first signs of hair regrowth after three to six months of continuous daily dosing. Full results may require up to a year of therapy.

• What should I do if I experience decreased libido while taking finasteride? Discuss the symptom with your clinician; dose adjustment or a trial discontinuation may be recommended. In many cases, the side effect resolves after a few weeks or upon cessation.

• Can I take finasteride with alcohol? Moderate alcohol intake does not significantly affect finasteride’s efficacy or safety. However, excessive drinking can exacerbate urinary symptoms in BPH patients, so limiting alcohol is advisable.

• Are there any foods I need to avoid while on finasteride? No specific dietary restrictions are required. Maintaining a balanced diet supports overall prostate health, but grapefruit juice can interfere with CYP3A4 metabolism and is best limited.

• Is finasteride safe for long-term use? Long-term studies up to ten years have shown sustained efficacy for BPH and hair loss with a stable safety profile. Ongoing monitoring of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels is recommended for men on chronic therapy.

• Can women use finasteride for hair loss? Finasteride is not approved for female pattern hair loss and is contraindicated in pregnancy due to the risk of birth defects in male fetuses. Off-label use in women is rare and should only be considered under specialist supervision.

• What is the difference between the 1 mg and 5 mg tablets? The 1 mg dose targets scalp DHT reduction for alopecia, while the 5 mg dose provides a higher systemic concentration required to shrink prostate tissue. Tablets are not interchangeable without medical guidance.

• Will finasteride affect my PSA test results? Yes, finasteride typically lowers PSA levels by about 50 %. Clinicians should adjust PSA interpretation accordingly, often doubling the measured value to estimate the true baseline.

• What information should I provide my doctor when discussing finasteride?

  • Complete list of current prescription and over-the-counter medications, including supplements.
  • History of liver or kidney disease, hormonal disorders, or prior prostate issues.
  • Any previous experience with androgen-modulating drugs and observed side effects.
  • Specific treatment goals (e.g., urinary symptom relief vs. hair regrowth).

Disclaimer

The information provided about finasteride is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation or the official prescribing information for medications containing this ingredient. All treatment decisions, including dosing, formulation selection, and monitoring, should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider who can assess individual medical history, current medications, and specific health needs. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to medications containing finasteride for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription-based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication containing finasteride.

External Resources about Finasteride

• Finasteride: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Warnings - Drugs.com
• Finasteride: Uses, Interactions, Mechanism of Action | DrugBank Online
• Proscar (finasteride) tablets label - Food and Drug Administration
• FDA alerts health care providers, compounders and consumers of potential risks associated with compounded topical finasteride products | FDA
• Finasteride (for Hair Loss)