Which finding is true regarding finasteride?

Finasteride is a medication that is primarily used to treat conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and male pattern baldness by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. One critical finding about finasteride is its association with birth defects. This stems from its effects on hormone levels, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which plays a crucial role in the development of male sexual characteristics.

Because finasteride can potentially alter fetal development, particularly in male fetuses, it is classified as a pregnancy category X drug. This means it is known to cause harm to the developing fetus if a pregnant woman is exposed to the drug. Therefore, it is crucial that women who are pregnant or may become pregnant avoid handling crushed or broken finasteride tablets to prevent potential exposure.

The other aspects, while relevant to some degree, do not accurately represent the key implications of finasteride use as it relates to public health and safety. Significant hypotension is not a common risk associated with finasteride, and it usually takes several months for the benefits to be observed, rather than just two weeks. Renal elimination is also not the primary route for this drug, as it is metabolized primarily in the liver. Thus