Finasteride

Finasteride: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Overview

• Competitively inhibits dihydrotestosterone (DHT) production within the prostate.
• DHT is the main hormonal stimulus for the development of benign prostatic hypertrophy.

Uses of Finasteride

• Treatment of benign prostatic hypertrophy as an alternative to castration.
• An extended treatment course (<8 weeks) may be required for full efficacy.
• Not authorized for veterinary use and therefore should only be used when delmadinone or osaterone are not appropriate.

Dose of Finasteride in Dogs and Cats

Dogs:

• 5 mg per dog p.o. q24h.

Cats:

• Not used.

Side Effects of Finasteride in Dogs and Cats

• Secreted into semen and causes fetal anomalies.

Contraindications of Finasteride in Dogs and Cats

• Do not use in sexually-developing dogs