Finasteride is a prescription-only tablet used to treat male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia). It works by blocking the action of an enzyme (5-alpha-reductase) that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Lowering DHT levels helps to reduce hair thinning and can encourage hair regrowth on the scalp.

• Take one 1 mg tablet once daily, exactly as prescribed.

• Swallow the tablet whole with water. You can take it with or without food.

• If you miss a dose, skip it and take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses together.

• Taking extra tablets will not improve the effect. If you take more than prescribed, contact a doctor or pharmacist.

• Results take several months and vary between patients. Continue only as advised by your prescriber and attend recommended reviews.

• Read the patient information leaflet and finasteride patient alert card supplied with your medicine.

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Women who are pregnant or could become pregnant must not handle crushed or broken tablets.

Finasteride can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them.

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Sexual side effects include reduced sex drive, difficulty getting or maintaining an erection, and ejaculation problems. These can sometimes continue after treatment has stopped. Contact your prescriber if they occur.

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Mood changes include low mood, depression and suicidal thoughts. If these develop, stop taking finasteride 1 mg and contact a doctor as soon as possible. If you have seriously harmed yourself or feel at immediate risk of doing so, call 999 or go to A&E.

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Allergic reactions: Stop taking the medicine and seek medical help immediately if you develop an allergic reaction. Call 999 for swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing or difficulty swallowing.

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Breast changes: Promptly report breast lumps, pain, enlargement or nipple discharge to your doctor.

Other reported effects include testicular pain, blood in semen and fertility problems. This is not a complete list; read the leaflet supplied with your medicine.

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Tell your prescriber about any side effects. You can also report suspected side effects through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

• Keep in the original pack, below 25°C, dry, and out of reach of children.

• Do not use after the expiry date on the carton/blister.

• Clinician review & prescription (if suitable)

• Discreet delivery

• Follow-up support and side-effect advice

• Clear guidance on how to take and what to expect

• How long before I see results?
  Most men notice less shedding within 3 months and visible improvement by 6 months. Review at 12 months to confirm benefit.

• Will I lose results if I stop?
  Yes - hair benefits gradually reverse over several months after stopping.

• Can I combine with minoxidil?
  Yes. Many men use topical minoxidil alongside finasteride for an additive effect.

• Does it affect erections permanently?
  Sexual side effects are usually mild and reversible after stopping. If symptoms persist or affect wellbeing, contact a clinician.

• Can women use finasteride?
  No. Finasteride is not indicated for women, and must not be handled by pregnant women (especially crushed/broken tablets).

• Can I drive or operate machinery?
  Finasteride does not typically affect alertness.