Generic porpecia (Finasteride)

Composition

Each film coated tablet contains Finasteride 1mg.

Description

Finpecia is a synthetic 4-azasteroid compound is a specific inhibitor of 5 ?- reductase, an intracellular enzyme that converts androgenic testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Administration of finasteride 1mg decreases scalp and serum DHT concentrations, increased amounts of which are thought to be responsible for male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia).

Indications

Finpecia is indicated for the treatment of male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) in MEN ONLY. Safety and efficacy have been demonstrated in men between the ages of 18 to 41 years with mild to moderate hair loss of the vertex and anterior mid-scalp area.

Dosage and Administration

The recommended dosage is 1 mg once a day, with or without meals. In general, daily use for three months or more is necessary before benefit is observed. Continued use is recommended to sustain benefits. Withdrawal of treatment leads to reversal of effect within 12 months.

In impaired renal function: No dosage adjustments are required.

In impaired hepatic function: To be used with caution since finasteride is metabolised extensively in the liver.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to any ingredient in the formulation. Finpecia is contraindicated in women and children.

Warnings and Precautions

Finpecia is not indicated for use in paediatric patients or women. Women should not handle crushed or broken Finpecia tablets when they are pregnant or may potentially be pregnant because of the possibility of absorption of finasteride and the subsequent potential risk to a male fetus.

Drug Interaction

No drug interactions of clinical importance have been identified. Finasteride does not appear to affect the cytochrome P450-linked drug metabolising enzyme systems. Compounds that have been tested in man include antipyrine, digoxin, propranolol, theophylline, and warfarin and no interactions were found.

Side effects

Finpecia is generally well tolerated and side effects have usually been mild and transient. These include decreased libido, erectile dysfunctions, and ejaculation disorders (primarily decreased volume of ejaculate).

Overdosage

No adverse effects have been noticed in patients who received single doses of 400 mg finasteride and multiple doses of upto 80 mg/day for three months.