FINASTERIDE

Chemistry - Finasteride is a 4-azasteroid synthetic drug that inhibits 5 alpha-dihydroreductase(DH) and has a molecular weight of 372.55.

Storage, Stability, Compatibility

Store tablets below 30°C in tight containers and protectedfrom light.

Pharmacology - FINASTERIDE

Finasteride specifically and totally inhibits 5-alpha-reductase. This enzyme isresponsible for metabolizing testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the prostate, liver andskin. DHT is a potent androgen and is the primary hormone responsible for the development of theprostate.
Uses, Indications - Finasteride is a new compound for use in humans to treat benign prostatichypertrophy. It potentially may be useful in treating the same condition in canine patients. Becauseof the drug's relative expense and the long duration of therapy required to see a response, itsusefulness may be limited in veterinary medicine.

Pharmacokinetics - FINASTERIDE

Finasteride is absorbed after oral administration and in humans about 65% is bioavailable. The presence of food does not affect absorption. It is distributed across the blood-brain barrier and is found in seminal fluid. In humans, about 90% is bound to plasma proteins.
Finasteride is metabolized in the liver and the half life is about 6 hours. Metabolites are excreted inthe urine and feces. In humans, a single daily dose suppresses DHT concentrations for 24 hours.

Contraindications, Precautions, Reproductive Safety

Finasteride is contraindicated in patientshypersensitive to it. It should be used with caution in patients with significant hepatic impairment asmetabolism of the drug may be reduced. Finasteride should be used in males only; do not use insexually developing animals.

Adverse Effects, Warnings

The adverse effects reported in humans thus far has been very limited, mild and transient. Decreased libido, decreased ejaculate volume, and impotence have been reported.

Overdosage, Acute Toxicity

No information was located.

Drug Interactions

Anticholinergic drugs, adrenergic or xanthine-derivative bronchodilators may precipitate or aggravate urinary retention thereby negating the effects of the drug.