Finasteride (Propecia/Proscar)
N-(2-methyl-2-propyl)-3-oxo-4-aza-5α-androst-1-ene-17β-carboxamide. 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitor, type ii 5ar inhibitor.
This page describes what Finasteride (Propecia/Proscar) is and its known risks. It is not medical advice and not a guide to using it. Many of these substances are prescription-only or illegal to use without a prescription. Speak to a doctor.
- Class
- 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitor
- Legal status
- Prescription only
- Half-life
- 5-6 hours
- Liver strain
- Low
- Kidney strain
- Low
- Converts to estrogen
- None
- Suppresses natural hormones
- Not typically
Medical uses
- Male pattern baldness
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
What it does in the body
Other
- Reduced DHT conversion
- Hair loss slowing/reversal (scalp)
- Reduced prostate size (BPH)
Forms, half-life and detection
| Form | Half-life | Reported detection window |
|---|---|---|
| Oral | 5-6 hours | Unknown |
Side effects and health risks
Mood and mind
- Post-finasteride syndrome (rare but reported: persistent sexual/mood/cognitive effects)
- Depression (reported in some users)
Androgenic
- Reduced libido
- Erectile dysfunction (subset of users)
Hormones and fertility
- Gynecomastia (rare)
Questions
What is the half-life of Finasteride (Propecia/Proscar)?
About 5-6 hours. Half-life is the time for the level in the blood to fall by half.
How long is Finasteride (Propecia/Proscar) detectable?
Testing windows of Unknown are reported, depending on the test and the person.
Is Finasteride (Propecia/Proscar) legal?
Prescription only. Laws differ by country and change; check the rules where you live.
What blood tests matter with Finasteride (Propecia/Proscar)?
Ask a doctor which tests suit you.
What are the side effects of Finasteride (Propecia/Proscar)?
Mood and mind: post-finasteride syndrome (rare but reported: persistent sexual/mood/cognitive effects) and depression (reported in some users). Androgenic: reduced libido and erectile dysfunction (subset of users). Hormones and fertility: gynecomastia (rare).
For information only, not medical advice. MyoStats is a tracking tool used at your own discretion. Speak to a doctor before changing your training, diet, medication or anything you take.