Finasteride

Finasteride

Manufacturer: Unique Pharma

Category: Oral

Dose and quantity: 2,5 mg/ml

Package: 100 pills

Form: Oral

Active Substance: Finasteride

Active Half-Life: 5-6 hours

Classification: 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors

Dosage: 7-17,5 mg a week

Water retention: No

Aromatization: No

Info: Finasteride is a medication primarily used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate) and male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia). It works by inhibiting the activity of an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase, which is responsible for converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a hormone that contributes to prostate growth and is also implicated in hair loss.

In the context of bodybuilding, some individuals have explored the use of finasteride due to its ability to reduce DHT levels. DHT is associated with the development of secondary sexual characteristics in males, including facial hair, deep voice, and muscle growth.
 

Effects:

Unintended Consequences: While reducing DHT levels may theoretically reduce the risk of hair loss and possibly mitigate the development of prostate issues, it can also have unintended consequences. DHT plays a role in various physiological processes, including libido, mood, and cognitive function. Lowering DHT levels could potentially lead to undesirable side effects in these areas.

Muscle Growth: While DHT is linked to muscle growth, its overall contribution to muscle development is relatively minor compared to other factors such as testosterone, growth hormone, and proper training and nutrition. Manipulating DHT levels through finasteride is unlikely to result in significant muscle gains and may even be counterproductive.

Reduced Prostate Enlargement: Finasteride works by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to the growth of the prostate gland. By reducing DHT levels, finasteride can help slow down the enlargement of the prostate and alleviate symptoms associated with BPH, such as difficulty urinating, frequent urination, and incomplete bladder emptying.

Hair Growth: In cases of androgenetic alopecia, finasteride can help slow down hair loss and promote hair regrowth. By inhibiting DHT, which is thought to contribute to hair follicle miniaturization, finasteride may help preserve existing hair and stimulate the growth of new hair.

Improved Urinary Symptoms: For individuals with BPH, the reduction in prostate size and relaxation of smooth muscle tissue in the prostate and bladder neck can lead to improved urinary symptoms and better urinary flow.
 

Adverse Effects:

Sexual Dysfunction: One of the most commonly reported side effects of finasteride is sexual dysfunction, including reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, and difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection. These effects can persist even after discontinuing the medication in some cases.

Decreased Semen Volume: Some individuals may notice a decrease in the volume of ejaculated semen while taking finasteride.

Breast Enlargement or Tenderness: Some users may experience breast enlargement (gynecomastia) or breast tenderness. This is due to the reduction in DHT, which can lead to changes in the balance of hormones affecting breast tissue.

Mood Changes: There have been reports of mood changes, including depression and anxiety, associated with the use of finasteride. However, the exact relationship between the medication and these mood changes is not fully understood.

Allergic Reactions: While rare, allergic reactions to finasteride can occur. If you experience symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, lips, or tongue), or difficulty breathing.

Other Side Effects: Some individuals may also experience less common side effects such as headaches, dizziness, and gastrointestinal disturbances (such as upset stomach).
 

Dosage and Duration:

Finasteride is typically prescribed in lower doses (1 mg) for the treatment of male pattern baldness and benign prostatic hyperplasia. The use of higher doses, such as 2.5 mg, would be considered an off-label use and carries potential risks and side effects. 

For the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), the duration of finasteride use can also vary. It's often prescribed for an extended period, and improvement in urinary symptoms may be observed over several months of consistent use.