Concerns About Side Effects of Boska: Breathing Difficulties in Women

I would like to inquire about the side effects of taking Bosica once a day (for women)?

I have been using it for two to three weeks.
In the first week, I took one pill every day.
After five or six days, I started to feel shortness of breath at night, as if I couldn't get enough air, and I felt a bit weak.
However, I felt better the next morning.
I then took a day off and resumed taking it for another five or six days, experiencing the same sensation, but this time it felt more uncomfortable, as if I had to exert more effort to breathe to feel okay.
When I got up and moved around, I felt quite normal, and it took another two days for the discomfort to completely subside.
I consulted a pharmacist, who indicated that there shouldn't be such side effects.
I do not have asthma or similar conditions.
I previously had polycystic ovary syndrome, but it has been well managed.
I started taking this medication (Boska) about two months after that, and I wonder if the dosage is too high for me.
Is it possible to cut the pill in half or take one every other day? I'm just unsure if that would still be effective.
Thank you for your response.

jun, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/08/19

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

I haven't heard of such side effects; you may want to discuss this with the physician who prescribed it to you.

Reply Date: 2021/08/19

More Info

When it comes to the use of Boska (finasteride) in women, particularly regarding concerns about side effects such as breathing difficulties, it is essential to understand both the medication's intended effects and its potential side effects. Finasteride is primarily used to treat male pattern baldness and benign prostatic hyperplasia by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). While it is FDA-approved for use in men, its use in women, especially those who are pregnant or may become pregnant, is not recommended due to the risk of fetal harm.

Side Effects and Concerns
1. Breathing Difficulties: The symptoms you describe, such as difficulty breathing and feelings of weakness, are not commonly reported side effects of finasteride. However, individual reactions to medications can vary significantly. It is crucial to consider that these symptoms could be related to other underlying health issues or even anxiety related to medication use. If you experience persistent or severe breathing difficulties, it is vital to seek medical attention promptly.

2. Dosage Adjustments: If you believe the dosage may be too high for you, it is essential to discuss this with your prescribing physician before making any changes. While some patients may consider splitting their doses or taking the medication every other day, this should only be done under medical supervision to ensure that it remains effective and safe for your specific situation.

3. Underlying Conditions: You mentioned having polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which can complicate hormonal balance and may influence how your body reacts to medications like finasteride. It's essential to communicate any pre-existing conditions to your healthcare provider, as they may need to adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

Interaction with Other Medications
If you are taking other medications, such as those for respiratory issues or pain relief, it is crucial to discuss potential interactions with your healthcare provider. While there is no direct interaction between finasteride and common respiratory medications, individual health circumstances can create unique interactions.

Recommendations
- Consult Your Doctor: Given your symptoms and concerns, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. They can evaluate your symptoms in the context of your overall health and determine whether finasteride is appropriate for you or if an alternative treatment may be more suitable.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including when they occur, their severity, and any other medications you are taking. This information can help your healthcare provider make informed decisions about your treatment.

- Consider Alternatives: If finasteride is causing adverse effects, discuss alternative treatments for hair loss with your doctor. There are other options available that may be more suitable for women, such as topical minoxidil, which is FDA-approved for female pattern hair loss.

Conclusion
In summary, while finasteride is effective for treating hair loss in men, its use in women requires careful consideration due to potential risks and side effects. Breathing difficulties are not typical side effects of finasteride, and if you experience such symptoms, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider. They can help determine the best course of action, whether that involves adjusting your dosage, switching medications, or exploring alternative treatments for hair loss. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Breathing Difficulties: Causes and Solutions for Nasal Issues

Hello Doctor, I have visited two major hospitals without any results, and the doctors were quite impatient and had a poor attitude. Later, I went to an ENT clinic where a doctor finally examined me. I would like to summarize the key points for your assessment and to see what the ...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, a deviated septum or hypertrophy of the nasal turbinates generally affects nasal congestion but does not typically cause respiratory distress. If there is severe respiratory distress, it is recommended to promptly seek evaluation from a pulmonologist and a cardiologist to ...

Breathing Difficulties and Back Pain: Seeking Solutions for Active Lifestyles

Dear Doctor, Hello. I really enjoy running, but for about the past six months to a year, I have been experiencing difficulty breathing while running. I often feel like I can't get enough air, and I sometimes have soreness in my upper back and a feeling of tightness in my ch...

Dr. Xu Li'an reply Family Medicine
Dear Janice, please visit a family medicine physician at the hospital and present the questions you have written down for discussion. They will go through each item with you and arrange for the necessary examinations. Since you are willing to take the time to write down these que...

Understanding My Symptoms: Seeking Answers for Anxiety and Health Issues

Since noon on July 28, I experienced gastrointestinal discomfort and vomiting. By evening, I still felt unwell, so I skipped dinner and took a shower. After showering, I didn't have time to dry off before I started sweating profusely, had difficulty breathing, and almost fai...

Dr. Chen Wenke reply Psychiatry
Hello Ms. Lin: From your description, it seems clear that you are experiencing significant discomfort. You appear to have a good understanding of your body and some medical knowledge. Your main symptoms include sudden cold sweats, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, palpit...

Breathing Difficulties After Using Essential Oils: What You Need to Know

Hello doctor, I have gained 20 kilograms due to foot pain from early March to early April. At the end of April, I started experiencing breathing obstruction. I have been examined by an otolaryngologist, who also performed a nasal endoscopy, and both chest X-rays and pulmonary fun...

Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello: Your symptoms are primarily related to nasal or upper respiratory tract narrowing (throat). It is recommended that you regularly follow up with an otolaryngologist and find ways to lose weight!