Do you have to take Finasteride at the same time every day?

Hello,
Yes that is a good point, and yes, you need to take finasteride same time everyday for maximum effectivness

Based on information provided by Merck and other Propecia (Finasteride) data it is recommended that the medication be taken every 24hrs. One of the main reasons for this dosing instruction is based on the 1/2 life of the medication. It most likely is more effective if there is a steady concentration of the medication within the bloodstream. They feel that 1 dose every 24 hrs is necessary to accomplish this, and gives Finasteride the best chance to have positive effects on the patient.

It is not necessary to take Finasteride at exactly the same time every day.  In general, it is recommended to take it about the same time every day, as a reminder, but varying it by several hours should not make any difference in the effect.  

As with any daily medication, plan to take it at about the same general time of day. Such as morning, midday, evening, or before bed. Extreme precision isn’t necessary. Though I applaud your commitment!

Many medications, Finasteride included, don't require an exact daily time regimine. Generally, if you're within an hour or so either way it is best. However, if you're within a few hours either way each day you'll be fine. Get past 12 hours late, skip the dose and start again at regular time. This also will not pose a problem with Finasteride unless it becomes a frequent issue.
Timing of all medications you take is a good issue to understand. Good to hear you take your health so seriously.
Warmly,
Arbella Sarkis, MD   

Taking it closer tot eh same time is always better but not crucial.  Being off by 3 hours once will make no difference.  Best to pick a time when you'll always remember

Taking finasteride at a particular time is not important because the effect occur as the drug fixes to the tissue (the hair follicle) not when it peak in the blood stream