finasteride · Medicine question

How does finasteride reduce dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels?

iatroX medicinesPublished 8 November 2026

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Finasteride competitively inhibits human 5-alpha-reductase, the enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), reducing circulating DHT and DHT within the prostate.

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Proscar 5mg film-coated TabletsOrganon Pharma (UK) Limited · emc · SmPC §5.1 Pharmacodynamic properties · Version 33Document updated 20 February 2025

Sources checked 8 November 2026

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Can Propecia (finasteride) be taken with or without food?Does Proscar (finasteride) affect the ability to drive or use machines?Has a clinically meaningful interaction between finasteride and warfarin been identified?How much lactose monohydrate does each Propecia (finasteride) tablet contain?Is Propecia (finasteride) contraindicated in men already taking Proscar or another 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor?What allergic swelling reactions have been reported with Proscar (finasteride)?

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