How Long Before Pregnancy Should You Stop Taking Finasteride?

How long before trying to conceive should one stop taking Boska?

Hello doctor, I am currently taking half a tablet of finasteride daily for hair loss.
I have plans to become pregnant in the future.
How long before conception should I stop taking the medication to avoid affecting the fetus?

E, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/08/15

Dr. Huang Zifei reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Dear E,
The half-life of Boscalid (the time it takes for half of the drug to be metabolized) is approximately 6 hours (with a distribution range of 3 to 16 hours).
Therefore, it is generally recommended to wait at least 32 hours after discontinuation before attempting to conceive.
If you have any further questions, please consult with a physician in the obstetrics and gynecology department.

Dr.
Huang Zifei, Nantou Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Reply Date: 2021/08/15

More Info

When planning for pregnancy, it is crucial to consider the medications you are currently taking, especially those that may have implications for fetal development. Finasteride, commonly known by its brand name Propecia or Proscar, is a medication primarily used to treat hair loss in men and benign prostatic hyperplasia. However, it is classified as a Category X drug by the FDA, meaning it is contraindicated in pregnancy due to the potential risk of causing birth defects in male fetuses.

Given your situation, where you are currently taking finasteride for hair loss and are planning to conceive, it is advisable to stop taking the medication at least 1 to 3 months before you start trying to get pregnant. This timeframe allows the drug to be cleared from your system, as finasteride has a relatively long half-life. The half-life of finasteride is approximately 5 to 6 hours, but it can take several days for the drug to be completely eliminated from your body. Therefore, waiting for a few months ensures that any residual effects of the medication are minimized.

In terms of safety for your future pregnancy, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider about your plans. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and the specifics of your situation. It is also important to consider that while finasteride is not recommended during pregnancy, the effects of stopping the medication may vary from person to person, and some individuals may experience a return of hair loss.

In addition to stopping finasteride, it is advisable to focus on overall health and wellness as you prepare for pregnancy. This includes taking prenatal vitamins that contain folic acid, which is crucial for fetal development and can help prevent neural tube defects. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight can also contribute positively to your fertility and pregnancy outcomes.

Moreover, if you have been experiencing hair loss, discuss alternative treatments with your healthcare provider that are safe for use during pregnancy. Some topical treatments, such as minoxidil, may also carry risks during pregnancy and should be approached with caution.
In summary, to ensure the safety of your future pregnancy, it is recommended to stop taking finasteride at least 1 to 3 months before trying to conceive. Always consult with your healthcare provider for tailored advice and to discuss any concerns regarding medications and their potential effects on pregnancy. Taking proactive steps now can help pave the way for a healthy pregnancy and baby.

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