Finasteride is a medication commonly used in gender-affirming care for transgender women. It is a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor that works by blocking the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a potent form of male sex hormone. Finasteride is used to reduce levels of DHT, which can help slow or prevent male pattern hair loss and reduce the growth of facial and body hair. Here's a detailed guide to the administration of finasteride:
Administration:
- Preparation:
- Finasteride tablets are typically taken orally with or without food.
- Before taking finasteride, read the medication label and any accompanying member information leaflet.
- Timing:
- Take finasteride tablets at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels of the medication in your body.
- Follow the prescribed dosing schedule, and do not skip doses or alter the dosage without medical advice.
- Administration Technique:
- Swallow the finasteride tablet whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet, as this can affect the release of the medication.
- If you have difficulty swallowing tablets, talk to your doctor about alternative options, such as cutting the tablet into smaller pieces or switching to a different formulation.
- Post-Administration Care:
- After taking finasteride, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to remove any residue from handling the medication.
- Store the medication in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture, following any storage instructions provided by the medication label.