Finasteride: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan

Finasteride is a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor. It is a prescription medicine used for enlarged prostate (BPH) and male pattern hair loss. In Pakistan it is available as tablets, made by 3 different manufacturers. On this page you can read how it works, its common side effects and precautions, and compare the brands and prices available at Medimart.

How Finasteride works

Finasteride blocks the enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT drives prostate growth and shrinks hair follicles in men prone to baldness, so lowering it gradually reduces prostate size and slows hair loss.

What is Finasteride used for?

• Enlarged prostate (BPH) and male pattern hair loss

Finasteride is used in men to treat an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia), easing urinary symptoms such as a weak flow and frequent urination, and lowering the chance of needing surgery. A lower-strength form is used to slow male pattern hair loss on the crown and middle of the scalp. Benefits take several months to appear.

Side effects of Finasteride

Most men tolerate Finasteride well, but some notice side effects such as:

• Reduced sex drive
• Difficulty getting an erection
• Less semen when ejaculating
• Breast tenderness or enlargement
• Skin rash

See a doctor promptly if you notice breast lumps, pain or nipple discharge, and seek help straight away if you feel low or have thoughts of harming yourself.

Precautions and warnings

• Low mood, depression and suicidal thoughts have been reported, so stop taking it and speak to your doctor if your mood changes.
• It lowers PSA blood test results, so tell your doctor you take it before any prostate check.
• Women who are or may become pregnant should not handle broken or crushed tablets, as it can affect the development of a male baby.
• Sexual side effects have occasionally continued after stopping; discuss any concerns with your doctor.
• It is not for use by women or children.

Frequently asked questions about Finasteride

What is the price of Finasteride in Pakistan?

At Medimart, Finasteride products currently in stock range from Rs 538 to Rs 1,217 per pack, depending on the brand, strength and pack size. The lowest-priced option right now is Genesis 1mg Tablet at Rs 538. Prices are updated regularly, so the product list on this page always shows the latest price.

Which brands of Finasteride are available in Pakistan?

Finasteride is sold in Pakistan under brand names such as Proscar, Hairfin (Sante Limited), Genesis (Ferozsons Laboratories Limited) and Finset (Maxitech Pharma).

Do I need a prescription for Finasteride?

Yes. Finasteride is a prescription medicine in Pakistan. Use it only when a doctor has prescribed it, at the dose and for the time they advise.

Can Finasteride be used during pregnancy?

Women who are or may become pregnant should not handle broken or crushed tablets, as it can affect the development of a male baby.

Are all Finasteride brands the same?

Brands that contain the same amount of Finasteride in the same form are expected to work in the same way, although inactive ingredients, pack sizes and prices differ. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching from one brand to another.

Finasteride brands and prices in Pakistan

Medimart lists 4 products containing Finasteride from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.

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