Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) Practice Exam

While preparing a prescription, a bottle of finasteride spills on the floor and some tablets are broken. Who should stay away from the spill area?

1. Males with BPH

2. Females in menopause

3. Females who are or may become pregnant

4. Males with hypertension

The correct answer is: Females who are or may become pregnant

In the context of finasteride, which is a medication commonly used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and male pattern baldness, caution is especially warranted for certain populations due to potential risks associated with exposure. The correct answer points to females who are or may become pregnant. Finasteride is classified as a pregnancy category X medication, which means it can cause significant harm to a developing fetus, particularly if the fetus is male. Exposure to finasteride, especially in its crushed or spilled form, can increase the risk of harmful effects due to absorption through the skin. Therefore, it is essential for these individuals to avoid the spill area to prevent any chance of exposure. Other groups, such as males with BPH or males with hypertension, do not face the same risks when it comes to finasteride exposure, as the medication is specifically indicated for them and does not pose a reproductive risk. Females in menopause may also not be as dangerous, but since they are no longer capable of becoming pregnant, they are not at risk in the same way as pregnant women or those who could become pregnant.