What is the brand name for Finasteride?
The brand name for Finasteride is Proscar.
PTCE Top 200 · #91
Finasteride
Proscar
Finasteride is the generic name for the brand-name drug Proscar. It is a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor used to treat BPH, male pattern hair loss. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Finasteride ranks #91 and is one of the most frequently tested genitourinary medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Finasteride |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Proscar |
| Drug class | 5-alpha reductase inhibitor |
| Class group | Genitourinary |
| Common use | BPH, male pattern hair loss |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Finasteride used for?
5‑alpha‑reductase inhibitor used for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and, at lower dose, male‑pattern hair loss.
What drug class is Finasteride?
Finasteride is a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor in the Genitourinary group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Finasteride
- arrow_rightDecreased libido
- arrow_rightErectile dysfunction
- arrow_rightEjaculation disorder
- arrow_rightBreast tenderness/enlargement
- arrow_rightRash
Major interactions
- arrow_rightPregnancy exposure risk: women who are or may become pregnant should not handle crushed/broken tablets (risk to male fetus)
- arrow_rightMay lower PSA—can affect prostate cancer screening interpretation
Is Finasteride a controlled substance?
No. Finasteride is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Finasteride (PTCE mnemonic)
PRO-scar shrinks the PROstate — FINasteride FINishes DHT conversion. ↓Libido/ED, lowers PSA by 50%; pregnant women NO TOUCH (teratogen — feminizes male fetus).
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PTCE exam tip
Finasteride treats BPH (Proscar) and hair loss (Propecia) — pregnant women shouldn't handle broken/crushed tablets (teratogen), a classic safety point.
Finasteride FAQ
What is Finasteride used for?
Finasteride is used to treat BPH, male pattern hair loss. 5‑alpha‑reductase inhibitor used for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and, at lower dose, male‑pattern hair loss.
What drug class is Finasteride?
Finasteride is a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor (Genitourinary group).
Is Finasteride a controlled substance?
No. Finasteride is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Genitourinary group
Drill Finasteride the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).