Common use: how Fincar (finasteride 5 mg) treats BPH and urinary symptoms
Fincar contains finasteride 5 mg, a 5‑alpha‑reductase inhibitor indicated for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in adult men. By lowering dihydrotestosterone (DHT)—a hormone that drives prostate enlargement—Fincar helps shrink the prostate over time. This reduction can ease lower urinary tract symptoms such as weak stream, straining, hesitancy, dribbling, frequent urination (especially at night), and the feeling of incomplete emptying. In addition to improving day‑to‑day urinary function, finasteride has been shown to reduce the risk of acute urinary retention and the need for BPH‑related surgery.
Fincar is sometimes combined with an alpha‑blocker (for example, tamsulosin) when rapid symptom relief is needed while waiting for the prostate‑shrinking effect to develop. Finasteride is also used at lower doses (typically 1 mg) for male pattern hair loss; however, Fincar’s 5 mg strength is formulated for BPH. Women and children should not use finasteride, and women who are or may become pregnant must not handle crushed or broken tablets because of the risk of fetal harm.
Dosage and direction: using Fincar effectively and safely
For BPH treatment, the usual adult dose of Fincar is 5 mg taken once daily, with or without food, ideally at the same time each day to help adherence. Do not split, crush, or chew the tablets; they are film‑coated to prevent skin exposure to finasteride. Most patients need several months of continuous therapy to notice a meaningful improvement. Maximal benefit commonly appears after 6 to 12 months. If your prescriber recommends combination therapy with an alpha‑blocker to speed symptom relief, follow the separate dosing directions for that medication as well.
Kidney impairment typically does not require dose adjustment. Because finasteride is metabolized by the liver, caution is advised in patients with hepatic impairment; a clinician may recommend additional monitoring. Do not change your dose, stop the medication, or start a new therapy without discussing it with your healthcare professional.
Precautions: what to know before and during Fincar therapy
Pregnancy and exposure: Finasteride can cause abnormalities in the external genitalia of a male fetus. Fincar is contraindicated in women who are or may become pregnant, and they must not handle crushed or broken tablets. The intact film coating allows safe handling for patients as directed, but the tablets should not be altered in any way. Keep Fincar out of reach of children.
Prostate cancer screening and PSA: Finasteride lowers prostate‑specific antigen (PSA) by about 50% after 6 months. To interpret PSA accurately, clinicians often establish a baseline before starting therapy and then adjust subsequent readings (for example, by doubling the value). A rising PSA while on finasteride warrants evaluation. Men with BPH symptoms typically undergo assessment to rule out prostate cancer prior to or during therapy. Discuss the timing of PSA checks and digital rectal exams with your clinician.
Risk–benefit considerations: Clinical trials have reported a small increase in detection of high‑grade prostate cancer in men taking finasteride, while overall cancer incidence may be reduced; the clinical significance remains debated. Sexual side effects can include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and changes in ejaculation; in a small number of cases, symptoms may persist after discontinuation. Mood changes and depression have been reported. Seek medical advice promptly if you experience persistent sexual dysfunction, low mood, or suicidal thoughts. Report any breast tenderness, enlargement, nipple discharge, or lumps, as male breast cancer is rare but has been associated in post‑marketing reports.
Contraindications: who should not take Fincar
Fincar is contraindicated in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to finasteride or any tablet component; in women who are or may become pregnant; and in children. It is not approved for women’s health conditions. Use caution in patients with significant liver disease, and ensure a clinician evaluates severe urinary obstruction, urinary tract infection, or suspected prostate cancer before or during therapy.
Possible side effects of Fincar (finasteride 5 mg)
Common side effects can include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, reduced semen volume, and ejaculation disorders. Some men notice breast tenderness or enlargement (gynecomastia), testicular discomfort, or skin reactions such as rash, itching, or hives. These effects are usually mild to moderate and may resolve with continued therapy or after stopping the drug. Not everyone experiences side effects, and many men tolerate Fincar well.
Less common but important reactions include depression, anxiety, and rare cases of suicidal ideation; promptly inform your clinician if these occur. Hypersensitivity reactions (including lip, tongue, or facial swelling) require urgent medical attention. There have been rare post‑marketing reports of male breast cancer. Any breast changes—lumps, pain, nipple discharge, or asymmetry—should be evaluated. Finasteride may affect fertility parameters (for example, sperm count or motility) in some men; these changes are usually reversible after discontinuation.
When Fincar is combined with an alpha‑blocker, additional side effects such as dizziness or low blood pressure on standing can occur; rise slowly from sitting or lying positions and report troublesome symptoms to your clinician. Always review the patient information leaflet and talk with your healthcare professional about risks, benefits, and what to expect.
Drug interactions and important considerations
Finasteride is metabolized by CYP3A4, but clinically meaningful interactions are uncommon. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers may theoretically alter levels, yet dose adjustments are typically unnecessary. Nevertheless, inform your clinician about all prescription drugs, over‑the‑counter products, and supplements you use. Avoid duplicative DHT‑lowering therapy (for example, taking saw palmetto alongside finasteride) unless your clinician approves, as overlapping effects may complicate symptom tracking and PSA interpretation.
Laboratory and donation notes: Because finasteride lowers PSA, ensure all healthcare providers and laboratories know you are taking Fincar so they can interpret tests correctly. If you plan to donate blood, many programs advise deferring donation for at least one month after the last finasteride dose to prevent exposure to a pregnant recipient; confirm local policies with your blood donation center.
Missed dose: what to do if you forget Fincar
If you miss a dose, take it when you remember the same day. If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once. Consistency matters with finasteride—long‑term daily use is typically needed for sustained benefit—so consider reminders or pill organizers to help stay on track.
Overdose: guidance and emergency steps
Accidental overdose with finasteride has not typically resulted in life‑threatening effects, and there is no specific antidote. If an overdose is suspected, contact your clinician or Poison Control (in the U.S., 1‑800‑222‑1222) for individualized advice, and seek emergency care for severe or concerning symptoms. Supportive management is based on clinical presentation.
Storage: keeping Fincar safe and effective
Store Fincar at room temperature, ideally 20–25°C (68–77°F), in a dry place away from moisture and heat. Keep tablets in their original packaging until use. Do not use after the expiration date. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not split or crush tablets, and prevent contact with broken tablets by pregnant individuals or those who may become pregnant.
U.S. sale and prescription policy: compliant access through HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Las Vegas
In the United States, finasteride (including Fincar 5 mg) is a prescription medicine. Federal and state laws require that it be dispensed pursuant to a valid prescription from a licensed clinician after an appropriate evaluation. Many patients now obtain prescriptions via telehealth, which allows a qualified provider to review medical history, assess symptoms, and determine eligibility remotely.
HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Las Vegas offers a legal and structured solution for acquiring Fincar without a formal prescription by arranging a licensed telehealth review for eligible adults. In practical terms, you do not need a prior paper prescription; instead, your assessment is completed online, and if appropriate, a clinician authorizes the medication for pharmacy fulfillment. This process maintains medical oversight and regulatory compliance while providing a convenient, discreet way to begin or continue BPH treatment. Secure checkout, responsive support, and plain‑package shipping help ensure a smooth experience.
