Finasteride Interactions Guide

The science is real: Finasteride is a safe and effective way for men to treat hair loss — as long as they’re mindful of side effects, drug interactions and other risks. 

Clinical trials and other research show that finasteride (also known as Propecia®) is proven to treat male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia). It works by inhibiting an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase and reducing a key compound in the reduction of hair growth: dihydrotestosterone, also known as DHT.

Finasteride is an oral and topical reductase inhibitor used daily, either in the form of finasteride tablets or a topical solution. When used correctly, it can reduce DHT levels by more than 90 percent in some cases — slowing the progress of male pattern hair loss.

But that reduction is not without risks. One of the primary sources of risk is interactions with other medications. 

Worried your heart disease, liver disease or other medications might bring unforeseen problems when crossed with finasteride? We’ve got you covered. 

Below we’ll go over drug interactions, side effects, medical conditions and other risks associated with finasteride and provide tips on how to stay safe when using it.

Let’s dive in so you can get back to handling your hair growth priorities.

Health Condition Finasteride Interactions

Unfortunately, certain health conditions unrelated to your hair follicles may create a serious risk if you’re dealing with them while using finasteride. 

Specifically, people with urologic and liver conditions may not be able to take finasteride safely. Any conditions or medications related to these issues should be shared with a healthcare provider before taking finasteride.

Additionally, there is a slightly increased risk of developing high-grade prostate cancer as a result of taking finasteride. Prostate cancer and prostate enlargement have been associated with 5-alpha reductase inhibitors like dutasteride as well as finasteride. 

Keep in mind, however,  that while these issues have been associated with finasteride in research, that was at a dosage of 5 milligrams, which is significantly higher than the recommended finasteride dose of 1 milligram.

There’s also a potential relationship to breast cancer for both men and women that’s been noted in research of finasteride, as well as breastfeeding risks that led to nipple discharge in infants.

We should note Propecia is not FDA-approved for treatment in women. Also, finasteride is contraindicated in pregnant women, so those who are pregnant or trying to conceive should avoid any contact with the tablets.

Finasteride Interactions: How to Stay Safe

Finasteride is overall considered very safe and effective to use. Per finasteride’s FDA label, there are no major drug interactions associated with this drug.

Here’s how to stay safe when taking finasteride: 

• Be aware of any potential side effects of finasteride, and make sure you report any of them to a healthcare professional.

• Only take your instructed dose of finasteride. Taking more than what you are prescribed can increase your risk of experiencing side effects.

• You should consult your healthcare provider before using finasteride and clarify what, if any, medications you’re taking that might cause problematic interactions. Also make sure they are aware of any health conditions you have.

Ready to get started? We offer a range of hair loss treatments, and a healthcare provider can help you determine what might be best for your particular hair loss situation, from prescription drugs to over-the-counter and lifestyle options. Reach out today to learn more.