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Substances: Finasteride

What is it?

Finasteride (marketed as Proscar, Propecia, Fincar, Finpecia, Finax, Finast, Finara, Finalo, Prosteride, Gefina, Finasterid IVAX) is an anti-androgen which acts by inhibiting type II 5-alpha reductase, the enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). It is registered in many countries for androgenetic alopecia (male-pattern baldness). It can also be used as a treatment in benign prostatic hyperplasia in low doses, and prostate cancer in higher doses.

How does it affect the body?

• Researchers have determined that hair loss is related to the androgen DHT.
• Finasteride works by blocking the enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT.
• By ensuring that DHT is not formed, the likelihood of hair loss is significantly reduced.

What are the risks?

Finasteride has been linked to following side effects:

• Erectile dysfunction
• Gynecomastia (breast enlargement)
• Depression
• In pregnant women can cause birth defects

Status in Sport:

Finasteride is a prohibited substance in and out of competition as it is a potential masking agent for androgenic steroids.

Before using any prohibited substances, athletes must contact their NSO to determine whether their sport's anti-doping rules allow for standard Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUEs). If the NSO allows the therapeutic use of prohibited substances, the athlete must strictly adhere to the approval procedures. More information on standard TUEs and access to standard TUE application forms can be found on the ASADA website and the Australian Sports Drug Medical Advisory Committee (ASDMAC) website www.asdmac.org.au.

For further information about the status of any substance in sport please go to the ASADA website www.asada.gov.au or contact the ASADA Hotline on 1800 020 506.

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