Finasteride (GU)

Finasteride (Proscar / Finasteride GU) tablets are used in men to treat symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH. Finasteride works at the hormonal level to reduce prostate size over time, which improves urinary flow and eases ongoing urinary symptoms. By targeting the underlying cause of prostate enlargement rather than just the symptoms, Finasteride tablets support long-term prostate health and BPH management.

Men with BPH often experience slow urine flow, difficulty starting urination, frequent night-time trips to the toilet, and a feeling that the bladder does not empty fully. You can request Finasteride tablets online from Pharmacy Planet following a short and free consultation with one of our UK prescribers, with discreet home delivery.

Finasteride (Proscar / Finasteride GU) tablets contain finasteride, a medicine that belongs to a group called 5-alpha reductase inhibitors. This type of medicine directly reduces prostate size by blocking the formation of dihydrotestosterone, also known as DHT. An enlarged prostate depends on DHT to continue growing. By lowering DHT levels within the prostate, Finasteride tablets gradually shrink the prostate gland. This reduces pressure on the urethra and improves urinary symptoms linked to BPH.

Finasteride tablets are prescribed for men with urinary symptoms including frequent need to pass urine (including at night), difficulty starting urination, weak or interrupted urine stream, dribbling after passing urine, and a sensation that the bladder does not empty fully. Note: Finasteride tablets are prescribed only for men and are not suitable for women or children.

Finasteride tablets work by blocking the action of an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase type II. This enzyme converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone, a stronger hormone that drives prostate growth. When DHT levels fall, the prostate gradually reduces in size. As the prostate shrinks, pressure on the urethra decreases, allowing urine to flow more freely. This improves urinary flow, reduces straining, and supports better bladder emptying. Finasteride tablets do not act on androgen receptors and do not affect testosterone production elsewhere in the body.

Always take Finasteride tablets exactly as prescribed by your pharmacist. Swallow the tablet whole with water, with or without food. Do not crush or break the tablets.

• Take one Finasteride tablet at the same time each day.
• Continue taking the medicine daily, even if symptoms change slowly.
• Read the patient information leaflet before starting treatment.

The usual dose is one 5 mg Finasteride tablet once daily. Since prostate enlargement develops slowly, it may take 3 to 6 months of continuous treatment before noticeable improvement occurs. Long-term use is often required to maintain benefits.

Finasteride tablets may be suitable for:

• Men diagnosed with benign prostatic hyperplasia.
• Men with confirmed prostate enlargement causing urinary symptoms.
• Men requiring long-term prostate reduction therapy.

Finasteride tablets are not suitable for:

• Women or anyone under 18 years of age.
• Anyone allergic to finasteride or tablet ingredients.
• Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant, due to the risk to an unborn male baby.

If your sexual partner is pregnant or may become pregnant, exposure to crushed or broken tablets and contact with semen should be avoided.

Like all medicines, Finasteride tablets can cause side effects, although many men experience none or only mild effects.

Common Side Effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 men):

• Reduced sex drive, difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection, reduced volume of semen during ejaculation

Uncommon Side Effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 men):

• Breast tenderness or swelling, ejaculation problems, skin rash or itching

Rare or Reported Side Effects:

• Mood changes including depression or anxiety, allergic reactions (swelling of lips/face/tongue/throat), testicular pain or blood in semen, changes in liver enzyme levels

Seek medical advice immediately if you notice signs of an allergic reaction, persistent mood changes, or breast lumps.

Finasteride tablets are commonly chosen because they reduce prostate size at the source of BPH, improve urinary flow over time, reduce frequent urination and night-time symptoms, lower the risk of urinary retention, and reduce the likelihood of needing prostate surgery. For men seeking a long-term solution for enlarged prostate management, Finasteride tablets offer a clinically proven option.

You can buy Finasteride tablets online from Pharmacy Planet, with a short UK consultation and discreet delivery.

1. Complete a short online consultation about your symptoms and health.
2. One of our UK prescribers reviews your answers to confirm suitability.
3. If approved, your Finasteride tablets are dispensed and delivered directly to your door.