What is Finasteride?

Propecia is the brand name of finasteride and is used to treat male pattern hair loss by preventing the conversion of testosterone to DHT in the body. Decreasing DHT leads to an increase in hair re-growth and slower hair loss. Male pattern hair loss is a common condition where males experience gradual thinning of hair on the crown and scalp resulting in a receding hair line or baldness on the top of the head. Propecia does not treat thinning hair on the temples and is not used to treat hair loss in women or children.

Always read the patient information and instructions carefully before using this medication.

• Propecia is usually taken daily and can be taken with or without food. Do not increase your change your Finasteride dosage unless advised by a doctor.
• When taking Finasteride for hair loss, it is most effective when used regularly and may take up to three months to see the benefits.
• Continue to use Propecia to maintain hair growth. Once you stop taking this medication, any gain in hair quantity is generally lost within one year.

Make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any drug allergies.
• Which other prescription and non-prescription medications you currently take.
• Your medical history especially of urinary problems, liver disease, prostate cancer or infections.

Also be aware that:

• This drug can be absorbed by the skin. If Propecia is crushed or broken it should not be handled by pregnant women or women planning on pregnancy.
• If a developing young male is exposed to this medication, it can result in genital abnormalities.
• This medication should not be used in women or children.

Common Propecia side effects may include but are not limited to:

• Sexual side effects such as impotence, decreased libido, trouble having an orgasm or abnormal ejaculation. These side effects may continue after you stop taking Propecia.
• Swelling in your hands or feet.
• Dizziness, weakness or feeling like you may pass out.
• Headache, runny nose or skin rash.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following finasteride side effects:

• Changes to your breasts such as breast lumps, breast pain or nipple discharge. These may be signs of male breast cancer.
• Symptoms of an allergic reaction such as rashes, breathing difficulty, hives or swelling of your face, tongue or throat.

Q: How long does it take to see the effects of Propecia?

A: It may take up to three months before you start to see the effects of this medication in your hair growth.

Q: What will happen when I stop taking Propecia?

A: You must continue to take this medication to maintain your hair growth. When you stop taking finasteride, any gain in hair quantity is generally lost within 12 months.

Q: Is there a generic Propecia?

A: The Propecia generic alternative is known as finasteride 1mg and may offer even better savings on the cost of your medication.