Drug Name
 

Fincar (Finasteride)

Drug Uses

Fincar is a drug that is used to treat male pattern hair loss.

How it is taken

You must take one tablet of Fincar regularly for at least 3 months to derive some benefits from the treatment. If you stop taking the drug midway, then any improvement in hair quantity will be lost.

Drug Class & Mechanism

Fincar works by preventing the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). It is DHT which is involved in the development of hair loss. Fincar is also used in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia BPH in men with an enlarged prostate.

Missed Dosage

If you miss a dose of Fincar, then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Storage

Store it at room temperature (between between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) in an air tight container protecting it from direct exposure to light, heat and moisture. Keep away from pets and children.

Warnings/Precautions

Discuss with your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this medication, or to a similar medicine called dutasteride (Avodart).

Finasteride is not to be used by a woman or a child.

Also, maintain caution that it can be absorbed through the skin, and can cause birth defects if a woman is exposed to it during pregnancy.

Do not handle this tablet if you suspect that you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

If you accidentally come into contact with this medication from a broken or crushed tablet, wash the area with soap and water right away.

Call your doctor at once if you notice any breast lumps, pain, nipple discharge, or other breast changes as these may be signs of male breast cancer.

Certain other drugs can interact with finasteride. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors.

Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Possible Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of feeling like you might pass out swelling in your hands or feet pain in the testicles impotence, loss of interest in sex, or trouble having an orgasm, abnormal ejaculation, swelling or tenderness in your breasts, dizziness, weakness, headache, runny nose or skin rash.

Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.

Other severe side effects include hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you notice any breast lumps, pain, nipple discharge, or other breast changes.
You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.