Finasteride — Drug Interactions, Alcohol & Pregnancy Guide
Last reviewed: · Source: US FDA drug label database · 247CanITakeWith Editorial Team
- Finasteride is a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor used for Male pattern baldness (1mg).
- Alcohol: No significant interaction between finasteride and alcohol — moderate drinking is fine, though alcohol may affect mood and sexual function independently.
- Pregnancy: Women must never take finasteride in pregnancy — it causes genital malformations in male fetuses. Women of childbearing age must not even handle crushed tablets.
About Finasteride
Finasteride reduces DHT (dihydrotestosterone). IMPORTANT: Women of childbearing age must not handle crushed or broken finasteride tablets due to risk of fetal genital malformation. Side effects include sexual dysfunction in some men.
Also sold as: Propecia (1mg), Proscar (5mg)
Finasteride at a glance
Finasteride is classed as 5-alpha reductase inhibitor and is used for male pattern baldness (1mg), benign prostatic hyperplasia (5mg). It is a prescription medicine, so doses and combinations should always be agreed with your prescriber or pharmacist.
Typical adult dosing guidance: 1mg once daily (hair loss); 5mg once daily (BPH). Your own label or prescription always takes priority over general figures.
Interactions most often flagged
- Pregnancy (women must not handle)
Before you combine Finasteride with anything new
- Read the patient information leaflet for both products.
- Keep one up-to-date list of every medicine and supplement you take.
- Ask a pharmacist — it is free and takes a couple of minutes.
- Seek urgent medical help if you feel seriously unwell after combining medicines.
Finasteride and Alcohol
No significant interaction between finasteride and alcohol — moderate drinking is fine, though alcohol may affect mood and sexual function independently.
Full guide →Finasteride in Pregnancy
Women must never take finasteride in pregnancy — it causes genital malformations in male fetuses. Women of childbearing age must not even handle crushed tablets.
Full guide →More in this category: urology
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Finasteride used for?
Finasteride is a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor used for Male pattern baldness (1mg), Benign prostatic hyperplasia (5mg).
What is the maximum adult dose of Finasteride?
The maximum adult dose is 1mg once daily (hair loss); 5mg once daily (BPH). This is general guidance — always follow the dose on your prescription or product label, and check with a pharmacist if you're unsure.
Can I drink alcohol with Finasteride?
No significant interaction between finasteride and alcohol — moderate drinking is fine, though alcohol may affect mood and sexual function independently.
Is Finasteride safe to take during pregnancy?
Women must never take finasteride in pregnancy — it causes genital malformations in male fetuses. Women of childbearing age must not even handle crushed tablets.
Is Finasteride available over the counter in the UK?
Finasteride is prescription-only in the UK.
What should I check before taking Finasteride with other medicines?
The interactions most often flagged for Finasteride are: pregnancy (women must not handle). Tell your pharmacist or prescriber about everything you take, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, before combining it with anything new.
What are the brand names for Finasteride?
Finasteride is sold under brand names including Propecia (1mg), Proscar (5mg). The active ingredient is the same, so check labels carefully to avoid doubling up on it.
Do I need a prescription for Finasteride?
Finasteride is a prescription medicine, so take it exactly as your prescriber directed and ask them before changing the dose.
Not sure if Finasteride is safe with your other medications?
HealthLabs.com lets you check liver enzyme or kidney function levels before combining medications long-term — no GP referral needed.
Check your levels at HealthLabs →Always speak to your pharmacist or GP for personalised medical advice. Affiliate link — we may earn a commission.