Finasteride 1.25 mg Oral Capsules are a solid dosage form consisting of two halves of either gelatin or vegetarian-based shells that encapsulate the active pharmaceutical ingredient, finasteride. These capsules are designed to be swallowed whole, facilitating ease of administration for the patient. The precise measurement of 1.25 mg of finasteride ensures consistent dosing and helps in maintaining the therapeutic regimen prescribed by healthcare providers.

Finasteride is primarily used in the management of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia). In the treatment of BPH, finasteride works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which is responsible for converting testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT plays a significant role in the enlargement of the prostate gland. By reducing DHT levels, finasteride can help decrease the size of the prostate, alleviate symptoms associated with BPH such as difficulty in urination, and reduce the risk of acute urinary retention and the need for surgical intervention.

For male pattern hair loss, finasteride's mechanism of action is similar, as it lowers scalp and serum DHT levels, which may slow hair loss and even promote hair regrowth in some men. It is important to note that while finasteride can be effective in these conditions, it is not suitable for use in women, particularly during pregnancy, due to the risk of birth defects.

Patients and prescribers should be aware that the benefits of finasteride may take several months to become evident, and continuous use is typically necessary to maintain its effects. Potential side effects may include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and ejaculation disorders, which should be discussed with a healthcare provider. Regular monitoring and follow-up appointments are recommended to assess the efficacy and safety of the treatment.

At Bayview Pharmacy, we are committed to providing high-quality compounded medications tailored to meet individual patient needs. Our team of expert compounding pharmacists is available to answer any questions and provide guidance on the use of finasteride 1.25 mg Oral Capsules. If you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

Finasteride is a medication primarily used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia). It works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which is responsible for converting testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a hormone that can cause enlargement of the prostate and is also involved in hair loss. By reducing DHT levels, finasteride can help to shrink the prostate and stimulate hair growth.

When considering the use of finasteride 1.25 mg oral capsules, it is important to be aware of potential drug interactions that may affect the efficacy of the treatment or cause adverse effects. Finasteride is metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 enzymes, mainly CYP3A4. Therefore, caution should be exercised when finasteride is co-administered with substances that can inhibit or induce CYP3A4. Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4, such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, and ritonavir, may increase the plasma concentrations of finasteride, potentially leading to increased side effects. Conversely, inducers of CYP3A4, like rifampicin, carbamazepine, and phenytoin, could decrease the plasma levels of finasteride, possibly reducing its therapeutic effect.

Additionally, finasteride can interact with other medications that may have an additive effect on the reduction of DHT or other hormones. For example, the concurrent use of other 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors, such as dutasteride, should be approached with caution, as this may increase the risk of side effects. Patients should also be advised that finasteride can interfere with PSA (prostate-specific antigen) tests, which are used for prostate cancer screening. It is important to inform healthcare providers that you are taking finasteride, as it can decrease PSA levels and potentially mask the detection of prostate cancer.

There is also a potential interaction with anticoagulants like warfarin. Patients on anticoagulant therapy should be closely monitored for changes in prothrombin time or INR when initiating or discontinuing finasteride treatment. It is crucial to maintain open communication with healthcare providers regarding all medications and supplements being taken to avoid any unintended interactions.

It is important to note that finasteride is contraindicated in women who are or may become pregnant due to the risk of teratogenicity. Finasteride can be absorbed through the skin, and capsules should not be handled by women who are pregnant or may potentially be pregnant. If contact occurs, the affected area should be washed immediately with soap and water.

Patients should be advised to report any changes in their health, including new or worsening symptoms, to their healthcare provider. Additionally, patients should not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without their doctor's approval. If you have any questions or concerns about the use of finasteride 1.25 mg oral capsules or potential drug interactions, please reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy for further assistance.

Finasteride 1.25 mg Oral Capsules are a solid dosage form that consists of two halves of either gelatin or vegetarian-based shells, which are filled with the precise amount of finasteride to ensure consistent dosing. These capsules are designed to be swallowed whole, making the medication easier to take for patients. Once ingested, the capsule shell dissolves in the stomach, releasing the finasteride for absorption into the bloodstream.

Finasteride, the active ingredient in these capsules, is a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor. This enzyme, 5-alpha-reductase, is responsible for the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the body. DHT is a hormone that can contribute to the development of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia). By inhibiting this enzyme, finasteride effectively lowers DHT levels in the scalp and serum, which can lead to the improvement of symptoms associated with BPH, such as urinary retention and frequent urination, and may also slow down hair loss and promote hair regrowth in patients with androgenetic alopecia.

It is important for patients and prescribers to understand that while finasteride can be effective in treating these conditions, it may take several months of consistent use to see noticeable improvements. Additionally, finasteride is not suitable for use in women, particularly when they are or may potentially be pregnant, due to the risk of birth defects. Men taking finasteride should also be aware of potential side effects, which can include sexual dysfunction, although these are generally rare.

For optimal results, finasteride should be taken at the same time each day, with or without food. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible, unless it is almost time for the next dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped to avoid taking a double dose. Patients should also be advised that discontinuation of finasteride may result in the return of symptoms or loss of the hair that was regrown during treatment.

As compounding pharmacists at Bayview Pharmacy, we are committed to providing high-quality, customized medications to meet the specific needs of our patients. If you have any questions about finasteride 1.25 mg oral capsules or any other medication, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to ensure that you have the information and support you need to make informed decisions about your health care.

Finasteride 1.25 mg oral capsules are primarily prescribed for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia (male pattern hair loss) in men. This medication works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which is responsible for converting testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the hormone that causes hair follicle miniaturization leading to hair loss in men. By lowering scalp and serum DHT levels, finasteride can help slow hair loss and, in some cases, stimulate hair regrowth. It is important to note that while the typical dose for hair loss is 1 mg, the 1.25 mg dose of this formulation provides a slightly higher dose which might be prescribed depending on the provider's discretion.

Beyond its use in male pattern hair loss, finasteride has other potential off-label applications. This medication has been explored in the treatment of excessive hair growth (hirsutism) in women, although it is not FDA-approved for this use. Women of childbearing potential should avoid handling or ingesting finasteride due to the risk of birth defects in a male fetus. Additionally, some studies have suggested finasteride may be beneficial in reducing the risk of prostate cancer; however, it also may increase the chance of developing high-grade prostate cancer in a small percentage of patients. Prescribers often weigh the potential risks and benefits when considering finasteride for these off-label uses. It’s important for both patients and providers to engage in a detailed discussion regarding the risks and benefits of finasteride before considering its use beyond its FDA-approved indication.

It is also worth noting that the 1.25 mg dosage of finasteride may be used in custom tailoring treatment plans to patient needs, particularly when tolerability or cost of medication is a concern, as the dosage allows for flexibility compared to the standard 1 mg tablet. Moreover, the solid capsule form of finasteride provides an alternative for patients who may have difficulty with finasteride tablets, either due to difficulty swallowing, tablet aversion, or personal preference for capsule dosage forms. Capsules can also offer some benefits over tablets such as potentially faster dissolution and absorption.

For personalized advice on the use of finasteride or if you have any questions about this formulation, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy. As compounding pharmacists, we are equipped to provide information and address any concerns you might have about using finasteride 1.25 mg oral capsules.