About Propecia
Propecia is prescribed to men for the treatment of male pattern
baldness. As Proscar, it is prescribed for benign prostatic hyperplasia
(BPH), or enlargement of the prostate gland. Propecia is classed
as a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, an enzyme which changes testosterone
to dihydrotestosterone in the liver. This results in shrinkage of
the prostate, and the reduction of symptoms such as difficult or
urgent urination. Hair loss linked to testosterone levels can be
prevented, halted, or reversed in many patients.
Propecia's effects on hair growth usually take about 3 months to
appear, lasting for the duration of treatment. New growth will disappear
within a year of stopping treatment. Propecia is considered the
first effective treatment for balding on the top of the head.
If you are taking Proscar for BPH, the effects may take 6 months
to appear, and will last only for the duration of the treatment.
Women of childbearing age are advised not to come into contact
with Propecia, as it may produce birth defects in male infants.
Propecia is only available by prescription, use as directed.
Propecia Side Effects
Mild Propecia Side Effects: decreased libido (typically
resolves with continued use), decreased testosterone, hives or rash,
lip swelling, male breast enlargement (rare). These side effects
are more likely with a 5 mg dose of Proscar, and less common with
a 1 mg dose of Propecia.
Serious Propecia Side Effects: genital deformities in male infants, oversensitivity.
Cautions: While Propecia is generally a very safe medication
for males over 12 years of age, there are certain precautions that
should be taken during its use.
- Allergies - An allergic reaction to this medication indicates
that you should not take it.
- Kidney or Liver damage may affect the metabolism of Propecia.
Any changes or deteriorations in kidney or liver function should
be discussed with your doctor.
- Prostate cancer - This should be ruled out by physical examination,
as Propecia may mask signs of prostate cancer.
- Sexual intercourse - Women of childbearing age, or women who
are pregnant, should not be exposed to the semen of a male partner
who uses Propecia. This medication can cause genital deformities
in male infants.
- Women - Pregnant women, and women of childbearing age, should
not handle Propecia or come in contact with the semen of a partner
who is using it. This medication can cause deformities in male
infants.
Propecia Interactions
There are no known significant, or dangerous, drug interactions
with Propecia (finasteride).
- Freedox (tirilazad) - Levels of this drug may be increased by Propecia
Propecia Dosages
Finasteride is available in the following dosages.
- Propecia - 1 mg tablets
- Proscar - 5 mg tablets
Propecia Directions
If you miss a dose of Propecia, take it as soon as you remember,
unless it is almost time for your next dose. Skip the missed dose
of Propecia and resume your regular schedule. Do not take double
doses of this medication.
Propecia tablets may be crushed for easier swallowing. Women of
childbearing age, or women who are pregnant, should not handle crushed
tablets.
Store Propecia away from direct light and heat. Store in a dry
location; avoid storing it in the bathroom, near sinks, or other
areas where it may become damp. Do not use after the expiration
date.
Keep Propecia away from children; both when storing it, and when
discarding any unused medication.
Propecia and Pregnancy
Propecia is known to cause birth defects in male infants. Do not
use it, or allow yourself to come into contact with the medication,
or the semen of a partner who is using it, while you are pregnant
or nursing.
Propecia and Children
This medication has not been tested for safety and effectiveness in children, and is not generally recommended for them.
Propecia and Seniors
No special cautions appear necessary for seniors taking Propecia,
though they may be more likely to experience decreased liver function
which would require dosing adjustments.
Propecia and Proscar are trademarks of Merck & Co., Inc.
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This document is provided for information only. It is not a substitute
for consultation with a physician, either to diagnose symptoms
or prescribe treatment. Any dosages mentioned are general
guidelines only, please follow the directions of your doctor
or pharmacist exactly when taking medication. We have made
every effort to ensure that this information is accurate,
but only your doctor can say if a medication, or drug combination,
is safe for you. Information intended for US residents only.
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