Description
Finasteride 5mg Tablets
The Finasteride 5mg tablet contains a higher concentration of finasteride and is usually prescribed for treating Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), or an enlarged prostate. The mechanism of action is to decrease the level of dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
It should be noted that Finasteride is also applied in case of male pattern baldness; however, the common strength of finasteride for the treatment of this condition is 1mg. Finasteride 5mg for the treatment of hair loss should be used only under medical control. Higher dose does not necessarily mean more effective treatment and may increase the likelihood of adverse reactions.
Some potential adverse reactions that may occur during the use of Finasteride 5mg tablets include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and difficulties with ejaculation.
What Is Finasteride 5 mg Used For?
Finasteride 5 mg is most commonly used in treating BPH or benign prostatic hyperplasia, which means enlarged prostate.
Some symptoms of BPH include:
- Frequent need for urination
- Difficulty beginning urination
- Weak urine stream
- Urinating frequently at night
- Dribbling after urination
- Feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder after urination
Finasteride helps in shrinking prostate and easing symptoms. Finasteride does not work as fast as other medications and may take several months to show any improvements.
How Does Finrest Tablet Function?
Finasteride present in a Finrest tablet inhibits the action of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase which is responsible for converting testosterone into DHT.
Decreased levels of DHT are beneficial in two ways:
In case of prostate:
A decrease in the levels of DHT helps the enlarged prostate to reduce its size gradually, thus improving the flow of urine.
In case of hair follicles:
DHT causes miniaturization of hair follicles in males suffering from androgenetic alopecia. Decreased DHT can help in preventing hair loss.
Comparison Between Finasteride 5mg and Finasteride 1mg
Finasteride 5mg and Finasteride 1mg have the same active ingredient but are prescribed for distinct purposes.
- Finasteride 5mg: This is mostly prescribed for benign prostatic hyperplasia (prostate enlargement). It acts by decreasing DHT levels, which results in the shrinking of the prostate gland.
- Finasteride 1mg: This is usually prescribed for androgenic alopecia (male pattern baldness). It acts by reducing DHT levels in the scalp.
How to Take Finrest Tablet
It is typically taken by mouth one time a day. It is recommended that Finasteride be taken precisely as directed and at the same time each day.
Important tips are:
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Do not double the dose when you miss a tablet.
- Follow the medication regularly.
- Do not switch from 5 mg of finasteride to another dose without consulting your doctor.
- Discuss with your healthcare provider any medications and health conditions you have.
In case of missed dose, it is advised according to MedlinePlus to skip the missed dose and continue with your usual dosing schedule.
Finasteride Possible Side Effects
Common/Mild Side Effects
- Impotence or reduced sex drive: Can happen. Consult your doctor/pharmacist if this side effect lasts or gets worse.
- Decreased volume of fluid released from the body during sexual intercourse: Described as harmless. Contact your doctor/pharmacist if this side effect lasts or gets worse.
- Hirsutism: Can happen. Consult your doctor/pharmacist if this side effect lasts or gets worse.
Side Effects That Are Serious. Get Immediate Help
Enlarged male breast: Breast pain/tenderness, lump in the breast, or discharge from nipples. Report this side effect immediately to your doctor.
- Testicular pain: Report this side effect immediately to your doctor.
- Problems with urination: Report this side effect immediately to your doctor.
- Serious Allergic Reaction: Swelling/hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, severe dizziness, difficulty breathing. Seek emergency help.
Medication Interactions to Be Alerted to
PSA blood test: Finasteride may influence the results of the blood test for detecting the presence of prostate cancer (prostate-specific antigen or PSA). Ensure that laboratory staff members and your doctors are aware of the fact that you are using this medication.
Prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, and herbal products: Inform your physician or pharmacist regarding all the medications you take prior to starting Finasteride.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Finasteride 5mg treat hair loss?
No, the dose of Finasteride 5mg is not used for treating hair loss. It is usually prescribed in the dosage of 1 mg per day for hair loss and in 5 mg for BPH. Don’t change the dose without medical consultation.
2. How Finrest tablet treats hair loss?
Finasteride reduces DHT, which takes part in hair loss. This process helps slow down hair follicles’ miniaturization in those men who are prone to that process.
3. What is the duration of action for Finasteride 5mg?
It will usually take about 3-6 months to see any changes in your condition while using Finasteride for BPH. Hair-loss treatment needs to be maintained as well.
4. Does Finrest tablet cause sexual side effects?
Yes, they may include reduced libido, problems with erections, ejaculation disorders and reduced volume of semen.
5. Can I use Finrest tablet daily?
It is usually taken once a day according to the doctor’s recommendation.
Conclusion
Finrest tablet is a drug that contains finasteride, and its mechanism of action is through the lowering of DHT. Finasteride 5mg is usually used to treat an enlarged prostate, whereas finasteride for hair loss in men is usually used in a lower strength.The strength of the drug to be used depends on the medical condition being treated. Finrest tablet should always be taken according to prescription.
