Use in women
Pregnant women are at an increased risk when comes in contact with this medicine. There is a risk of potential danger to the unborn male baby. Women should avoid handling a broken or crushed tablet. This medicine cannot be used in women.
Protein formed by the cells of the prostate gland (prostate-specific antigen)
Men with or without prostate
cancer who use Finasteride are at an increased risk. Finasteride can decrease the level of prostate-specific antigen in the blood. In patients with prostate gland enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia), there is a 50% decrease in the level of blood prostate specific antigen. Proper analysis of prostate-specific antigen in the blood is required in men who treated with this medicine. Digital rectal tests or other evaluations for the prostate cancer are recommended before starting therapy with Finasteride and regularly after beginning treatment.
Prostate cancer
Men using Finasteride are at an increased risk. They may suffer from high-grade prostate
cancer.
Breast cancer
Men who use Finasteride are at an increased risk. They may have breast
cancer. It is advised to the patient to report if they experience any changes in their breast such as enlargement of the breast (
gynecomastia),
lumps,
pain, and nipple discharge.
Use in children
This medicine should not be used in children.
Mood alterations
Men who are treated with Finasteride are at an increased risk. These patients may have mood alterations including
depression, and less commonly suicidal ideation. The patients should be observed for psychiatric symptoms and if this happens, seek medical advice.
Products containing lactose
The patients with rare genetic problems including total lactase deficiency, galactose intolerance, or decreased absorption of glucose-galactose are at an increased risk when using this medicine. This medicine should not be used in these patients because its medicinal product contains lactose.
Urinary problems
Patients with heavily decreased urinary flow and large urine left in the bladder after urination are at an increased risk when using this medicine. These patients may suffer from blockage complications of the bladder. These patients should be carefully monitored.
Surgery should be an option.