Finasteride is a medication used to treat male pattern baldness and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It works by inhibiting the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to hair loss and prostate enlargement. Finasteride is available as a prescription medication in tablet form.
Finasteride is effective in preventing hair loss and promoting hair growth in men with male pattern baldness. It can also improve symptoms of BPH, such as difficulty urinating and frequent urination. Finasteride is generally well-tolerated, with common side effects including decreased libido and erectile dysfunction. However, these side effects are usually mild and improve over time.