MedicinePOMEssential

Finasteride

A medicine for men that treats an enlarged prostate and male pattern hair loss.

Clinical information

Common uses

benign prostate enlargement
male pattern hair loss (private prescription only)

Common side effects

problems getting an erection
less interest in sex
problems ejaculating, such as little or no semen

Cautions

rare low mood or thoughts of self-harm — see a doctor urgently
affects PSA prostate cancer test results — tell your doctor
report chest lumps, pain, swelling or nipple discharge
generally not recommended for women or children

Interactions

St John's wort (may stop finasteride working)

Pregnancy: not taken by women; partner's use very unlikely to cause harm

Reference information, not medical advice — always follow your doctor or pharmacist. Source: NHS Medicines A–Z, nhs.uk/medicines/finasteride (accessed 2026-08-16)

Approved brands & formulations1

Brand name	Dosage form	Strength	Importer	Category
Finast	Tablet	5 mg	State Trading Organization Plc	POM