Not medical advice. This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine. Finasteride requires a valid prescription.
Finasteride
Generic Name: FINASTERIDE
Finasteride tablets USP, 1 mg contains finasteride as the active ingredient.
Data last updated: 30 March 2026 · Source: openFDA.gov, DailyMed (NLM/NIH)
Common Brand Names in India:
What is Finasteride Used For?
- Male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) in MEN ONLY
- Male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) in MEN ONLY ( 1 )
How Does It Work?
In humans, the mechanism of action of finasteride is based on its preferential inhibition of the Type II isozyme.
Dosage & Administration
- Finasteride tablets USP may be administered with or without meals.
- The recommended dose of finasteride tablets USP is one tablet (1 mg) taken once daily.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
Warnings & Precautions
- Finasteride tablets USP are not indicated for use in women or pediatric patients ( 5.1 , 5.4 ). Women should not handle crushed or broken finasteride tablets USP when they are pregnant or may potentially be pregnant due to potential risk to a male fetus ( 5.1 , 8.1 , 16 ). Finasteride tablets USP causes a decrease in serum PSA levels.
- Women should not handle crushed or broken finasteride tablets USP, when they are pregnant or may potentially be pregnant because of the possibility of absorption of finasteride and the subsequent potential risk to a male fetus.
Who Should NOT Take This?
- Finasteride use is contraindicated in women when they are or may potentially be pregnant.
- Because of the ability of Type II 5α-reductase inhibitors to inhibit the conversion of testosterone to 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT), finasteride may cause abnormalities of the external genitalia of a male fetus of a pregnant woman who receives finasteride.
Drug Interactions
Finasteride may interact with the following medicines. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Storage Instructions
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Speak to a dermatologist on Zospital
Consult a dermatologist on Zospital before starting Finasteride. Verified Indian specialists available for in-clinic and online consultations.
Other Skin & Dermatology Medicines
Sources: openFDA.gov · dailymed.nlm.nih.gov · nlm.nih.gov (RxNorm). Information is for educational purposes only. Consult a doctor before use.
FAQS
Finasteride – Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Finasteride, its uses, dosage and safety.
Finasteride is commonly prescribed in India for: Male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) in MEN ONLY, Male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) in MEN ONLY ( 1 ). Always confirm the indication with a registered medical practitioner before starting any course.
Finasteride is sold in India under brand names such as Propecia, Finpecia, Finast, Follicle, Proscar, Entadfi. You can also find it on online pharmacies like 1mg, Pharmeasy and Apollo Pharmacy.
Finasteride is a prescription-only (Schedule H) medicine in India. You will need a valid prescription from a registered MBBS / MD doctor to purchase it from a licensed pharmacy.
Common side effects of Finasteride can include: Rash. If side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor.
In humans, the mechanism of action of finasteride is based on its preferential inhibition of the Type II isozyme.
Finasteride can interact with: Finasteride. Tell your doctor about every medicine, supplement and herbal product you take — including ayurvedic and homeopathy preparations — before starting Finasteride.
Indian guidelines often recommend lower starting doses of Finasteride for patients above 60-65, since kidney and liver function decline with age. A doctor should review the dose, especially if the patient already takes BP, sugar or heart medicines.
Pregnancy safety of Finasteride depends on the trimester and individual case. Indian gynaecologists usually avoid Category C/D drugs unless benefit clearly outweighs risk. Speak to your obstetrician before taking Finasteride during pregnancy or while planning conception.
Prices in India typically range from ₹30 – ₹500 per strip / vial depending on brand. Generic versions tend to cost 30-60% less than branded ones, and Jan Aushadhi outlets often stock the lowest-priced equivalents. Check 1mg or Pharmeasy for live MRP.
If you remember within a few hours of the missed dose, take it. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one — never double up. Frequent missed doses reduce Finasteride's effectiveness, so consider setting a reminder or speaking to your doctor about a simpler schedule.
You can book an in-person or online consultation with a verified Indian specialist on Zospital — visit the doctor directory at https://zospital.com/doctor to find one near you.
Medical Disclaimer
The content provided on Zospital is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.