Finasteride

5-Alpha-Reductase Inhibitor
Drug Class
5-Alpha-Reductase Inhibitor
Mechanism of Action (MOA)
Inhibits 5-α-reductase → ↓ conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) → shrinks the prostate.
Clinical Notes
BPH (shrinks the gland over months) and androgenetic alopecia. Lowers PSA ~50% (double the measured value when screening). Teratogen — pregnant women shouldn't handle crushed tablets; sexual dysfunction.
Source
FDA label

Sources

Reviewed September 2026
  1. FDA label — FDA / DailyMed

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Used for

Same family

Reproductive & urinary drugs · 6 drugs

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