Propecia

The active ingredient in Propecia is finasteride. Finasteride is a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor. Other medications in this drug class include the brand name Avodart, otherwise known by its generic name dutasteride. By blocking the 5-alpha reductase enzyme, finasteride can treat male pattern baldness by preventing the conversion of testosterone to DHT (dihydrotestosterone). Too much DHT and too little testosterone cause miniaturized hair follicles and can lead to hair loss and a receding hairline. These results appear to be limited to the scalp. Clinical studies looking at the effect of Propecia on body hair did not see a significant change in hair growth.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Propecia. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Propecia:

• Typically, Propecia is taken by mouth once a day with or without food.
• Use exactly as prescribed. Using extra Propecia does not ensure better results. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of use.
• Propecia has a film coating that prevents the medication from coming into contact with the skin. This is especially important for pregnant women as handling finasteride can result in birth defects where the male fetus may have abnormal sex organ development. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should not handle crushed or broken Propecia tablets.
• If you miss a dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

The most common side effects of Propecia seen in clinical trials include:

• Decreased sex drive
• Ejaculation disorder (decreased amount of semen)
• Erectile dysfunction

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Propecia. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Breast enlargement; breasts may be tender and painful, have lumps, or produce nipple discharge.
• Depression and suicidal thoughts
• Sexual side effects that persist despite stopping Propecia
• Testicular pain and male infertility
• Signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, rash, itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Signs of male breast cancer such as unusual changes in breasts or a breast mass or swelling
• Propecia can falsely decrease your PSA level or the amount of prostate-specific antigen in your body. Elevated levels of this marker could indicate a prostate problem, such as an enlarged prostate or prostate cancer.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Propecia. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Propecia, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Prostate problems
• Liver problems

Do not handle or use Propecia if you have:

• An allergy to finasteride or any of the other ingredients found in Propecia
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant

Propecia does take some time to work. It may take several months of consistent use to see the effects of finasteride.

When Propecia is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions.

Propecia is available in the following strengths:

• 1 mg

Finasteride is also available under another brand name known as Proscar. This brand name contains a higher dose of finasteride and is typically used in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Propecia should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture, and out of reach of children.

Propecia is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Organon.

Yes, a generic version of the brand name Propecia is available.

It is best to gradually taper off Propecia under the supervision of a healthcare provider to prevent negative withdrawal effects. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing medications while taking Propecia.

Propecia may cause harm to the unborn child. Pregnant females, females of childbearing age, or females trying to get pregnant should not touch Propecia tablets with their bare skin, especially ones that are crushed or broken. It may get absorbed through the skin and cause harm to unborn babies. Wash your hands with soap and water right away if you come into contact with Propecia tablets.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.