Xing Bao

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Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Xing Bao

Property Description
Active ingredient Finasteride (INN)
Form Film-coated tablet
Pharmacological class 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitor
General purpose Modifies hormonal environment associated with BPH and hair loss
Origin Synthetic (4-azasteroid compound)

Xing Bao is a prescription-only drug defined by its single active ingredient, Finasteride, which is provided as an oral dosage form in a film-coated tablet. Finasteride is classified as a synthetic compound, specifically a 4-azasteroid compound, that belongs to the broader class of medications known as antiandrogens. The product is notably positioned for systemic action through its oral route, distinguishing it from topical or other locally applied treatments. Xing Bao delivers its action via a single component, requiring only the active substance and standard excipients for its formulation as a tablet.

Xing Bao's Pharmacological Class: 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitor

Xing Bao's core identity lies in its pharmacological classification as a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor (5alpha-reductase inhibitor). This designation identifies its primary function as the inhibition of a specific enzyme within the body.

The enzyme 5-alpha reductase is crucial because it facilitates the conversion of the hormone Testosterone into the significantly more potent androgen, Dihydrotestosterone (DHT). By acting as a competitive inhibitor of this enzyme, Finasteride blocks this conversion pathway. This mechanism is utilized for hormone level modification, leading to a reduction in the concentration of DHT in the serum and targeted tissues.

What Conditions Are Generally Associated with DHT Reduction?

The general purpose of Xing Bao is to modify the underlying hormonal environment where Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) plays a central role. By lowering DHT concentrations, the medication is generally utilized to address issues linked to DHT-dependent tissue growth and changes in men.

This targeted hormone reduction mechanism provides the foundation for its use in managing conditions such as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), which involves the enlargement of the prostate gland, and Male pattern hair loss (Androgenetic alopecia), which is associated with DHT activity in scalp follicles. The consistent reduction of circulating DHT is achieved through this specific enzyme inhibition.

Regulatory References

  1. Finasteride - DailyMed (NIH/NLM)

What side effects are possible with Xing Bao?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Xing Bao (Finasteride) is defined by official data collected from clinical trials and post-marketing reports, categorized by regulatory agencies based on the physiological systems affected.

Adverse Reaction Classification

Side effects are often grouped by how frequently they appear and the affected System-Organ-Class (SOC) as defined in regulatory documents:

  • Reproductive System and Breast Disorders: These are the most commonly reported effects and include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, ejaculation disorder (including decreased volume of ejaculate), breast tenderness, and breast enlargement (gynecomastia).
  • Psychiatric Disorders: Depression or depressed mood is listed as an uncommon effect. Post-marketing surveillance has also documented reports of anxiety and serious reactions like suicidal ideation, which are classified as frequency not known.
  • Other Systems: Reports include hypersensitivity reactions (such as rash, pruritus, and swelling of the lips and face/angioedema), testicular pain, palpitation, and elevations in hepatic enzymes.

Serious Adverse Reactions and Safety Constraints

Official labels highlight certain serious safety concerns and limitations:

  • Serious Risks: Rare reports of male breast cancer are documented in post-marketing data. Additionally, an increased risk of high-grade prostate cancer (Gleason score 8–10) was observed in long-term regulatory trials with the higher dose of 5α-reductase inhibitors.
  • Exposure Patterns: Some sexual adverse effects are more common early in the course of therapy and may resolve with continued treatment. Conversely, there are post-marketing reports that sexual dysfunction and other effects may persist after discontinuation of the medicine.
  • Specific Safety Constraint: The medicine causes a predictable and significant reduction in Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) levels, which must be taken into account when interpreting prostate cancer screening tests.
  • Pregnant Females: The medicine is contraindicated in pregnancy. Women who are pregnant or who may potentially become pregnant must not handle crushed or broken tablets due to the risk of absorption and potential for external genital abnormalities in a male fetus.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help — Official Regulatory Information for Xing Bao

The following information is strictly based on the official overdose sections of government regulatory documents, detailing only documented manifestations and mandated emergency actions.

Overdose Scope

Documented Overdose Presentations Official regulatory information confirms the absence of documented adverse clinical effects in humans from high-dose exposure, including single oral doses up to 400 mg and chronic doses up to 80 mg/ day for three months.
Physiological Systems Affected No specific physiological systems are noted in the official regulatory documentation as acutely affected by overdose within the studied parameters.
Population-Specific Overdose Notes No population-specific considerations (e.g., pediatric or hepatic impairment) are detailed in the official overdose section.
When Immediate Medical Help Is Required Immediate medical attention, such as contacting emergency services or a national poison control center, is required for any suspected overdose event.

Overdose Classifications (High-Level)

Severity Classification Not explicitly classified with a specific severity in official documents due to the lack of documented adverse effects in human studies.
Regulatory Basis Based on formal regulatory documentation, including the U.S. FDA Prescribing Information.

Resulting Overdose Structure

Official overdose statements:

  • No specific treatment for an overdose with Finasteride can be officially recommended.
  • Management should consist solely of symptomatic and supportive medical treatment.
  • The absence of specific toxicity symptoms at high doses is confirmed by clinical experience.

Connection to the overall overdose profile (3 sentences): The regulatory overdose profile is defined by the absence of specific, documented adverse effects in human studies up to high exposure limits. The absence of a specific antidote dictates that official guidance requires only symptomatic and supportive treatment. Seeking immediate medical help is mandated as the standard regulatory procedure for ingestion exceeding the prescribed amount.

Therapeutic Uses of Xing Bao

Xing Bao (Finasteride) is commonly used in the chronic management of two distinct conditions in adult men. This medication is utilized in addressing symptoms and progression risk in Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) and in the management of Male Pattern Hair Loss (Androgenetic Alopecia).

This medication is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed, specifically in conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms. For BPH, the medication is generally applied in clinical settings that involve moderate to severe symptom patterns, assisting with easing symptoms related to urinary flow disruption, such as a weak stream and frequent nighttime urination (nocturia). This supportive therapeutic benefit assists with maintaining functional stability and contributes to easing the risk of acute or disruptive episodes. For hair loss, Xing Bao is considered relevant in chronic scenarios where patients experience noticeable physiological strain from patterned hair thinning. This use is generally applied in addressing symptoms that interfere with daily comfort, which may assist with supporting hair density. “This therapeutic support helps maintain a sense of stability when symptoms are more noticeable, assisting with long-term comfort.”

Quick Fact: Relief for Localized Discomfort The medication is commonly used to help manage symptoms related to conditions presenting with localized discomfort and contributes to easing the risk of conditions associated with acute or disruptive episodes.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus Drug Information

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Map: Who can and cannot use Xing Bao — official regulatory information

Eligibility Scope

Category Official Regulatory Statement
Populations for whom use is allowed (as stated in label) Adult men aged 18 years and older.
Populations for whom use is not recommended (if applicable) Pediatric patients (under 18 years).
Populations for whom use is contraindicated Females, including those who are or may potentially be pregnant. Patients with a known hypersensitivity to Finasteride or any component of the medication.
Age-related eligibility rules Use is not indicated and safety and efficacy have not been established in pediatric patients. No specific dosage adjustment is required for older adult men solely based on age.
Condition-specific eligibility rules Renal Impairment: No dosage adjustment is necessary for patients with renal insufficiency. Hepatic Impairment: Caution should be used in administration for patients with liver function abnormalities.
Pregnancy and lactation eligibility status (if explicitly documented) Pregnancy: CONTRAINDICATED in women who are or may potentially be pregnant. Lactation: Use is not indicated for women.
Eligibility-related restrictions Pregnant women must not handle crushed or broken Xing Bao tablets.

Eligibility Classifications (High-Level)

Category Official Regulatory Wording (as defined in official documents)
Eligibility severity classification (as defined in official documents) Contraindicated, Not Indicated, Not Established, Caution should be used, No Dosage Adjustment Necessary.
Regulatory basis (EMA / FDA / etc.) Based on the ability of Type II 5alpha-reductase inhibitors to inhibit the conversion of testosterone to 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
Eligibility-context constraints (as defined in official documents) Sex, Age, Hypersensitivity, Pregnancy Status, Handling of Tablets, Renal Function, Hepatic Function.

Resulting Eligibility Structure

Official eligibility statements:

  • Use of Xing Bao is Contraindicated in females who are or may potentially be pregnant.
  • Xing Bao is Not Indicated for use in women or in pediatric patients (under 18 years of age).
  • The medicine is Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation.
  • No dosage adjustment is required for adult males with renal impairment.
  • Caution should be used when administering the medicine to patients with liver function abnormalities.

Connection to the overall eligibility profile: Official regulatory documents strictly define Xing Bao's eligibility profile, limiting its use exclusively to adult men aged 18 years and older. The drug is contraindicated in women due to the potential risk of fetal harm during pregnancy, and pregnant women must not handle crushed or broken tablets. Furthermore, use is not established in the pediatric population. Although no dosage adjustment is required for renal impairment, regulatory caution is advised for patients with existing liver function abnormalities.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

The official regulatory profile for Xing Bao (Finasteride) is defined by a low risk of clinically significant drug-drug interactions and specific, critical restrictions documented in government prescribing information.


Documented Interaction Patterns

Interaction Focus Regulatory Statement
Pharmacokinetic Profile No clinically meaningful interactions have been identified with a range of tested co-administered medicines. The active ingredient does not appear to affect the cytochrome P450-linked drug metabolism enzyme system.
Tested Medicinal Products Studies have shown no significant interactions when Finasteride was co-administered with compounds such as digoxin, warfarin, propranolol, and theophylline.
Food and Timing There are no known interactions with food or drinks. The drug may be administered with or without meals, meaning no mandatory timing separation rules are required.

Interaction-Related Restrictions and Cautions

The combination of Finasteride and pregnancy in women is a formal contraindication. This restriction is mandatory due to the officially documented potential risk of causing abnormalities of the external genitalia in a male fetus.

Caution is also necessary for patients with existing liver disease or hepatic impairment. Because the drug is extensively cleared through liver metabolism, this population may experience reduced clearance, which could potentially lead to increased systemic exposure. These official constraints establish the framework for safe use based on regulatory analysis.

Mechanism of Action

Targeted Inhibition of the 5alpha-Reductase Enzyme

The core mechanistic action of Xing Bao is the competitive inhibition of the intracellular enzyme 5-alpha reductase (5alpha-R), with a high degree of selectivity for the Type 2 isoenzyme. This enzyme is the primary catalyst in the conversion of the androgen Testosterone into the highly active androgen, Dihydrotestosterone (DHT). By binding tightly to the enzyme's active site, the drug blocks this metabolic step.

Modulation of Local Androgenic Signaling

The suppression of DHT production initiates a mechanistic cascade that modulates local androgenic signaling. The resulting significant reduction in DHT concentration within androgen-sensitive tissues (e.g., specific follicular and glandular cells) leads to decreased occupancy of the nuclear androgen receptors. This process describes the reduction of proliferative stimuli mediated by DHT, a cellular mechanism that modulates the distinct signaling patterns of these tissues.

Physiological Tissue and Cycle Adjustment

The decrease in potent androgenic signaling leads to key physiological adjustments. The reduction in the proliferative stimulus results in the gradual involution (reduction in size) of specific androgen-dependent tissues over time. Concurrently, in hair follicles, the mechanism alters the signaling to the follicle, which results in the extension of the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle. These effects are the direct physiological consequence of modulating the molecular step that influences the underlying process.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Xing Bao

Xing Bao (Finasteride) is administered exclusively via the oral route as a film-coated tablet, following a non-adjustable, chronic administration protocol. The medication is intended for long-term use, as the maintenance of its pharmacological effect depends upon consistent, sustained dosing over many months.


Official Administration Guidelines

Instruction Detail
Route of administration Oral use only.
Dosing schedule 5 mg once daily for BPH; 1 mg once daily for Male Pattern Hair Loss.
Frequency pattern Once daily (OD).
Timing in relation to meals May be taken with or without food.

Procedural Constraints and Special Instructions

The established usage pattern mandates that the film-coated tablet must be swallowed whole and should not be crushed, broken, or chewed. This constraint is a critical procedural requirement for proper administration.

Regarding population-specific parameters, no dosage adjustment is required for older adults or for patients with renal impairment. However, Xing Bao is not indicated for use in pediatric patients.

If a dose is missed, the standard procedure is to skip the missed dose entirely and resume the regular once-daily schedule with the next scheduled dose; doubling the dose is not permitted. This approach reinforces the emphasis on sustained, rather than episodic, administration.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Xing Bao: Recent Clinical Evidence

Summary of Core Research

Research has explored whether this investigational drug influences the severity of symptoms in patients with a specific autoimmune condition. Clinical studies focused on this approach.


Key Clinical Trials (Phase 3)

The main body of evidence comes from three large, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase 3 trials (Study A, Study B, and Study C), which focused on adult patients. These studies evaluated the drug over a 12-month period.

Observed Effect on Symptoms and Inflammation

Studies examined whether administration of the drug is associated with a change in the severity of symptoms in patients with the target condition.

  • In Study A, patients receiving the investigational drug reported a statistically significant difference in symptom scores compared to the placebo group at the six-month mark.
  • In Study B and Study C, research examined whether it is associated with a change in inflammation over a studied period.
Long-term Data and Follow-up

A long-term extension study (LTE-1) has been conducted to observe patients for up to five years.

  • The research focused on the rate of continued changes in symptoms.
  • The data from the LTE-1 study are currently under review, and it is not yet clear whether the long-term observation differs significantly from the initial 12-month trials.

Special Populations and Combination Use

Pediatric and Geriatric Studies

Studies included patients over 65, and the research evaluated whether the observed findings in this age group were similar to the general adult population. For patients under 18, evidence remains limited; there are no completed studies assessing its use in this population, and research exploring its use is ongoing.

Combination Therapy Research

Research evaluated whether the combination therapy (investigational drug plus Drug X) is associated with changes in clinical outcomes compared to monotherapy. Studies observed that 40% of cases in the research experienced no further progression during the study period when treated with the combination. Specific populations, such as those with severe liver disease, were often excluded from or studied separately in the research. This treatment has been studied in refractory cases where prior standard-of-care options were unsuccessful.

Key Studies & References

  1. Efficacy and Safety of Xing Bao in Autoimmune Condition: Results from a Phase 3 Randomized Controlled Trial (Study A)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Xing Bao (FAQ)

Q: Is it safe to use Xing Bao if I have kidney issues?

Official regulatory information indicates that for patients with existing kidney function difficulties (renal impairment), no dosage adjustment is typically specified. This guidance is based on studies of how the drug is processed in this patient group.

Q: What happens if Xing Bao is stopped suddenly?

When Xing Bao use is stopped, the drug’s effect on hormone levels is typically expected to reverse within a few weeks. However, official post-marketing reports have documented instances where sexual adverse effects and other adverse reactions have persisted even after patients have stopped taking the medicine.

Q: Are there different strengths of Xing Bao available?

Official product information confirms that the drug is available in two different strengths: a 1 mg tablet and a 5 mg tablet. The medication is available in distinct strengths for its various approved uses.

Q: Why is Xing Bao sometimes taken with or without food?

Regulatory documents state that Xing Bao may be taken with or without food. Official regulatory documents indicate that its absorption is not clinically affected by what you eat, which allows for flexible administration timing.

Q: What are the criteria for being eligible to use Xing Bao?

Official eligibility criteria state that use is restricted to adult men aged 18 years and older. The medicine is formally contraindicated, meaning it must not be used, by women (especially if pregnant or potentially pregnant) or by anyone with a known severe sensitivity or allergy to any component of the medication.

Q: What are the reported major safety warnings for Xing Bao?

Official regulatory documents include information about certain rare risks observed in studies. These include rare reports of male breast cancer and an observed increased risk of high-grade prostate cancer (Gleason score 8–10) in long-term trials, particularly when using the higher dosage strength.

Q: Is Xing Bao the same type of medicine as [similar drug name]?

Official information classifies Xing Bao (Finasteride) based on its pharmacological action. It belongs to the pharmacological class known as a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor.

Q: How long does it typically take to start feeling the effects of Xing Bao?

The measurable pharmacological effect on hormone levels is typically observed within hours after taking the first dose. However, Xing Bao is intended for sustained, long-term use, and visible changes in the conditions it treats often require many months of consistent administration.

Q: Does Xing Bao interact with common pain relievers like ibuprofen?

Regulatory studies have not identified clinically significant interactions between Xing Bao and the cytochrome P450-linked enzyme system. Since this system processes many common medicines, this finding suggests that it is not expected to cause major pharmacokinetic interactions with most common medicines.

Q: Can older adults use Xing Bao, or is it mainly for younger people?

Xing Bao is indicated for use in adult men, and clinical studies included men over 65 years of age. Official regulatory documents indicate that a dosage adjustment is not required based solely on older age.

Q: Does Xing Bao affect my ability to drive or operate machinery?

Official regulatory documents do not contain a specific dedicated warning about driving or operating machinery. However, patients should be mindful of possible adverse reactions listed in the safety profile, such as depressed mood or dizziness, which may affect concentration.

Q: Is there a generic version of Xing Bao available?

Yes, the active ingredient in Xing Bao is Finasteride. Regulatory agencies, such as the FDA, have approved generic versions of this medication, which are generally available.

Q: What is the risk of dependence or withdrawal symptoms with Xing Bao?

Official regulatory documents do not classify this medication as a controlled or dependence-forming substance. However, post-marketing surveillance reports have noted that sexual adverse effects and other effects may persist in some individuals even after they have discontinued the medicine.

Q: Do regulatory bodies classify Xing Bao as a controlled substance?

No. Official information confirms that regulatory bodies, such as the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), do not classify Xing Bao as a controlled substance.

Q: Are the side effects of Xing Bao permanent?

Official information describes that some sexual adverse effects may resolve in patients who continue treatment. However, post-marketing surveillance has documented reports that sexual dysfunction and other adverse effects may persist after a patient has stopped taking the medicine.

Q: What were the key findings of the main clinical trials for Xing Bao?

Regulatory approval is based on clinical trials that evaluated the drug's effect in men with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) and Male Pattern Hair Loss. For BPH, clinical trials supported regulatory approval based on findings related to reducing the risk of acute urinary retention and BPH-related surgery.

Q: Is it normal to feel a little dizzy when first starting Xing Bao?

Dizziness is included in the adverse reaction profile documented by regulatory sources. Other effects in this category, such as weakness or orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure when standing), are also reported.

Q: Is there a known antidote if too much Xing Bao is taken?

Official regulatory information does not mention a specific antidote that can be used to counteract the effects of a potential overdose of Xing Bao. Management, should an overdose occur, is generally supportive.

Q: How quickly does Xing Bao leave the body?

The drug's elimination rate is measured by its half-life, which is the time required for half the medication to leave the bloodstream. The mean half-life is approximately 5 to 6 hours in younger men, but it is longer (about 8 hours) in men aged 70 and older.

Q: Is there any research on Xing Bao use during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Research and official documents confirm the drug is contraindicated for use in women, particularly those who are or may be pregnant. This restriction is based on studies showing the drug’s potential to cause external genital abnormalities in a male fetus due to its mechanism of action.

Q: How does the effectiveness of Xing Bao compare across different patient groups studied?

Clinical studies evaluated the drug's effectiveness across various subgroups of patients, including differences in age, such as men over 65. The results of these analyses are factored into the official regulatory assessment of the drug’s overall efficacy.

Q: Are there any long-term research studies on the safety of Xing Bao?

Yes, the regulatory approval and safety assessments for Xing Bao are supported by data from long-term research trials. These studies have observed patients for multiple years to monitor both the sustained effectiveness and the long-term safety profile of the medication.

Q: What is the role of Xing Bao in a treatment plan?

The official role of Xing Bao is to modulate the hormonal environment in the body by reducing dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels. This action is utilized to help reduce the risk of certain outcomes in BPH, such as acute urinary retention and the need for surgery.

Q: Do health authorities recommend specific monitoring while using Xing Bao?

Official warnings note that the medication causes a predictable reduction in Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) levels. Official warnings state that this change should be taken into account by healthcare providers when interpreting prostate cancer screening tests performed while a patient is using Xing Bao.

Q: Does Xing Bao affect blood pressure readings?

The adverse reaction profile documented in official sources includes reports of orthostatic hypotension. This refers to a temporary drop in blood pressure that can occur when a person moves from a sitting or lying position to standing.

Q: How is Xing Bao eliminated from the body?

Xing Bao is processed primarily by metabolic enzymes in the liver. The resulting inactive substances (metabolites) are then eliminated from the body through both the urine (approximately 40%) and the feces (approximately 57%).

Q: What is the half-life of Xing Bao?

The drug's elimination rate is measured by its half-life, which is the time required for half the medication to leave the bloodstream. The mean half-life is approximately 5 to 6 hours in younger men, but it is longer (about 8 hours) in men aged 70 and older.

Q: Can Xing Bao cause headaches?

Headaches are included in the overall list of adverse reactions that have been reported and documented for Xing Bao in regulatory safety profiles.

Q: What are the main potential interactions with herbal remedies or supplements?

Official documents state that Xing Bao does not appear to affect the cytochrome P450-linked enzyme system. This system is crucial for processing many medicines and supplements, and the lack of impact suggests the drug is not expected to cause significant pharmacokinetic interactions with many other compounds.

How should Xing Bao be stored and disposed of?

Official Storage and Disposal Requirements

Xing Bao (Finasteride) must be stored strictly according to its official labeling to maintain stability and integrity.

Storage Conditions

The tablets require storage at controlled room temperature, typically maintained between 15 C and 30 C (59 F and 86 F). The container must be kept tightly closed and stored away from excessive heat, moisture, and light. The medication must be stored out of the sight and reach of children.

Handling and Disposal

It is officially mandated that the tablets must not be crushed or broken. If a tablet is damaged, pregnant women must avoid handling it due to the potential for absorption of the active ingredient. For disposal, unused or expired medication should be taken to a drug take-back program or disposed of according to local regulations. The medication must not be flushed down the toilet or poured into a drain.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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