Finasteride

Finasteride 5 mg

Overview
Finasteride 5 mg (Proscar/generic) is a 5‑alpha reductase type II inhibitor that decreases DHT by ~65–70%, which supports hair retention, prostate volume control, and may indirectly boost serum testosterone by 8–15%. It is frequently used by men over 40 or those concerned with androgen-related scalp changes.

✅ Benefits

• Effectively reduces DHT levels—protects against androgenic alopecia and prostate enlargement

• May increase free testosterone modestly, supporting muscle development

• Preserves strength and lean mass when used with testosterone therapy

• Approved for BPH and hair loss, dosage differs by indication (5 mg vs 1 mg)

⚠️ Side Effects

• Possible erectile dysfunction, reduced libido, and decreased ejaculate volume, typically reversible upon cessation

• Rare cases of gynecomastia or breast tenderness (about 1–1.5%)

• Depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation have been recognized, though uncommon

• Rare reports of muscle weakness or rhabdomyolysis, though causality is not confirmed

💊 Dosage

• FDA-approved dose: 5 mg orally once daily for BPH

• Off-label hair loss dose: Normally 1 mg/day; 5 mg may be used in specific cases under medical supervision

• Athlete consideration: Stick to 5 mg only if balancing prostate symptoms, hormonal therapy, or hair preservation under clinical guidance. Lower doses minimize side-effect risk.

🔄 Cycles & Use in Bodybuilding Context

• Best used long-term, not in cycles; continuous therapy typical for 3–12+ months

• In TRT or high-test cycles, 5 mg finasteride prevents prostate enlargement without disrupting strength or fat-free gains

• Not recommended for intermittent use or to counter androgenic side effects of AAS—no rapid onset or reversible masking.

⚕️ Precautions & Interactions

• Contraindicated in pregnant women or those planning conception; can cause birth defects

• May reduce PSA levels, affecting prostate cancer screening; inform doctors when undergoing tests

• Use caution in men with preexisting sexual dysfunction; effects may persist after stopping in some individuals

• No major drug interactions, but individuals with liver/renal dysfunction should consult a physician.

🩺 Overdose

Studies have administered up to 80 mg/day for months without serious toxicity; 400 mg single doses showed no acute harm. No specific antidote defined, but supportive care recommended.

📊 Results & Reviews

• In bodybuilders on high-dose testosterone, finasteride did not reduce muscle or strength gains and helped prevent prostate growth

• Reddit users report no decline in gym performance; some report unchanged or even improved recovery due to higher circulating testosterone

❓ FAQ

Q: Will 5 mg finasteride reduce my muscle gains?
A: No—not in clinical settings when testosterone levels are maintained. Muscle and strength gains remain unaffected when DHT reduction is offset by higher free testosterone.

Q: How long before I see hair retention results?
A: Hair benefits typically appear after 3–6 months; stopping treatment usually reverses protection within a year.

Q: Are sexual side effects permanent?
A: Rarely. While most users reverse side effects after discontinuation, a small subset reports persistent dysfunction.

🔚 Conclusion

Finasteride 5 mg offers powerful DHT suppression ideal for bodybuilders managing hair loss, prostate growth, or supplementing TRT without compromising muscularity. While sexual and psychiatric side effects are possible, proper monitoring and dose adherence make it a legitimate, well-tolerated tool in the male athlete's wellness arsenal.

References:

• Dragon Pharma Products
• Legit Dragon Pharma
• Finasteride Profile - Wikipedia