Finasteride
(fin-ass-te-ride)
Description: Agent to Treat Prostatic Enlargement
Other Names for this Medication: Proscar®, Propecia®
Common Dosage Forms: Veterinary: None. Human: 1 mg & 5 mg oral tablets. Compounded forms may be available to accurately dose smaller dogs and ferrets.

How is this medication useful?
Finasteride may be used to treat benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH; enlarged prostate) in dogs and adrenal disease in ferrets. The FDA has approved this drug for use in humans but it is not officially approved for use in animals. The FDA allows veterinarians to prescribe products containing this drug in different species or for other conditions in certain situations. You and your veterinarian can discuss why this drug is the most appropriate choice.

What are the side effects of this medication?
Experience with using finasteride in animals is limited, but dogs appear to tolerate it well. Side effects that are usually not serious include: Vomiting, diarrhea, reduced appetite. You don’t have to be overly concerned if you see any of these signs unless they are severe, worsen, or continue to be a problem.
Contact your veterinarian if this happens.

If you have any other questions about this medication, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist