Competitively inhibits 5-alpha reductase type II enzyme, blocking conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the prostate. DHT is the primary androgen driving prostatic hyperplasia. Reduces prostate size without affecting libido.
At a glance
Class
5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitor
Storage
Store at room temperature below 30°C; handle with gloves if pregnant women present
Dosing
Used for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in intact male dogs when castration
Feline prostatic disease is extremely rare
Safety
Prostate size by ultrasound at 8–12 weeksClinical signs (straining, hematuria)Hepatic enzymes periodically
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Finasteride?
Finasteride is a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor used in pets. Competitively inhibits 5-alpha reductase type II enzyme, blocking conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the prostate. DHT is the primary androgen driving prostatic hyperplasia. Reduces prostate size without affecting libido.
›What is Finasteride used for in pets?
Finasteride is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in intact male dogs when castration ; Feline prostatic disease is extremely rare.
›What is the Finasteride dose for dogs?
For dogs, Finasteride is typically dosed as follows — Used for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in intact male dogs when castration : 0.1–0.5 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Finasteride dose for cats?
For cats, Finasteride is typically dosed as follows — Feline prostatic disease is extremely rare: undefined undefined N/A N/A. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Finasteride need a prescription?
Yes. Finasteride is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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