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What is 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.

Propecia Warnings

There are no known significant, or dangerous, drug interactions with Propecia (finasteride).

• Freedox (tirilazad) - Levels of this drug may be increased by Propecia

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 Dosage

Finasteride is available in the following dosages.

• Propecia - 1 mg tablets
• Proscar - 5 mg tablets

Propecia - Missed Dose

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.

What storage conditions are needed for this medication?

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.

What other information should I know?

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.