Let's take a minute to talk about your medication. 

This is finasteride, and you should take it exactly as directed by your doctor, at the same time each day. It's best to swallow the tablets whole. Women who are pregnant or who might be pregnant should not handle crushed or broken tablets, because it is unsafe for the baby. 

Finasteride helps relieve symptoms from an enlarged prostate in men. It can help you urinate less often, with a stronger urine stream and more complete emptying of your bladder. It can also help reduce the need for prostate surgery. It's normal to take 6 months or longer to see your symptoms improve. 

Most patients tolerate it well. Occasionally, though, side effects can happen, like breast tenderness or enlargement. You could have a decrease in semen, but this shouldn't affect normal sexual function. Other possible side effects include a rash, depression or sexual problems. If you think you are having one of these side effects or others, or if your prostate symptoms ever get worse instead of better, be sure to discuss it with your doctor promptly. 

There have been rare cases of male breast cancer, so call your doctor right away if you notice changes to your breasts, like lumps, pain or nipple discharge. Finasteride may also increase the risk of prostate cancer, so follow your doctor's recommendation for regular check-ups and prostate cancer screenings. 

For best results, plan ahead for refills, and read the medication guide for full information.