Finasteride is a medication primarily used to treat male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition in which the prostate gland becomes enlarged. It is an oral compound, available in different dosage strengths depending on the condition being treated. For hair loss, it is typically prescribed at a lower dose (1mg, often marketed as Propecia), while for BPH, a higher dose (5mg, often marketed as Proscar) is common. Finasteride works by targeting specific hormonal pathways in the body. It is important to note that finasteride is not approved for use in women or children. Its efficacy in treating hair loss and BPH has been established through clinical trials. (NIH NLM DailyMed, FDA label)
Deep dive
Tap a section to expand.
Known interactions
Category rule: supplement × medication
Note
Some supplements change how the body processes medications (absorption, liver enzymes, or additive effects).
Specific pairs are checked against a licensed drug database and shown with their own severity. Always confirm with your provider or pharmacist.
Category rule: vitamin × medication
Note
Certain vitamins interact with specific medications (e.g., vitamin K with blood thinners).
Specific pairs are checked against a licensed source; confirm with your provider.
Compound-pair rule
Caution
5-alpha-reductase inhibitors block DHT conversion; can affect libido and prostate response on TRT.
Discuss goals with prescribing clinician; monitor sexual function.
Frequently asked
Sources referenced
["U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM) DailyMed", "U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) label", "MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine)", "Mayo Clinic", "DrugBank Online", "Cochrane Library", "NIH Clinical Trials Archive"]
Stackwise compiles summaries from publicly available scientific and regulatory references. Always verify important decisions with a licensed clinician.
Related compounds
Others in the medication category or studied for the same goals.