Description
Indications
Propecia generically known as finasteride, is a prescription medication used to treat male pattern baldness. It is part of a class of drugs known as 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors (5-ARIs). It is approved only for use in men because it can cause ambiguous genitalia in developing male fetuses. Propecia works by reducing dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels in the scalp, which is thought to be a major cause of hair loss in men.
Finasteride prevents the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the body. DHT has been implicated in the balding process, and by decreasing DHT levels, Propecia can help to treat male pattern baldness. Additionally, Finasteride is used to treat prostate enlargement, as it inhibits the conversion of testosterone to DHT that is responsible for prostate gland growth.
Uses and Dosage
Propecia comes in the form of tablet to take by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once a day. Use Propecia regularly to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day. It may take up to 3 months to notice a benefit. You must continue to take Propecia to maintain your hair growth. When you stop taking finasteride, any gain in hair quantity is generally lost within 12 months.
The recommended dosage of Propecia is one tablet (1 mg) taken once daily, with or without food, as directed by a doctor. It is necessary to use Propecia regularly for three months or more before any benefit is observed. Continued use of Propecia is necessary to maintain hair growth, and if the medication is discontinued, any gains in hair quantity are generally lost within 12 months.
Side effect
Common Side Effects of Propecia (Finasteride):
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Headache
- Impotence or sexual dysfunction
- Loss of interest in sex
- Abnormal ejaculation
- Trouble having an orgasm
- Breast tenderness
Serious Side Effects of Propecia (Finasteride)
- Fainting
- Lump in the breast
- Nipple discharge
- Breast enlargement
- Inability to urinate
- Testicular pain
- Enlarged prostate
Form and strength
Propecia (Finasteride) is available in the following forms and strength:
Propecia: Tablet
- 1 mg
Finasteride: Tablet
- 1 mg
Caution
- Since Propecia can be absorbed through the skin and lungs and may harm an unborn baby, women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant should not handle Propecia or breathe the dust from the tablets. It may cause abnormal sex organ development in an unborn male infant.
- Be aware that taking finasteride may result in decreased fertility in men, as well as potential issues with sexual desire, ejaculation, and maintaining an erection during and even after treatment. Discuss these risks with your doctor before taking finasteride.
- Using finasteride or Propecia may increase the risk of developing high-grade, potentially more aggressive prostate cancer. It is recommended to talk with your doctor to learn more about the potential risks associated with using this medication.
- If you have an allergy to finasteride, any other medications, or any of the ingredients in finasteride tablets, be sure to inform both your doctor and pharmacist. To obtain a list of the ingredients, ask your pharmacist or refer to the patient information provided.
- It is worth noting that taking Propecia may raise your likelihood of obtaining prostate cancer. To ensure that it is safe for you to use this medication, your doctor will carry out diagnostic testing to verify that you do not have any other conditions that may restrict its use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can this medication cause cancer?
5 alpha-reductase inhibitors may increase the risk of developing high-grade prostate cancer.
Does this medication affect infertility?
Propecia could potentially cause infertility and poor semen quality.
Can women use Finasteride?
Finasteride is not recommended for use in women, especially those who are pregnant or may become pregnant, as it can cause birth defects to male fetuses.
How long does it take for Finasteride to work?
It can take up to 12 months for Finasteride to affect hair loss or an enlarged prostate.
Do I need a prescription for Finasteride?
Yes, Finasteride is a prescription medication and must be prescribed by a doctor.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/propecia/what-is#side-effects
- https://www.organon.com/product/usa/pi_circulars/p/propecia/propecia_ppi.pdf
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-5471/propecia-oral/details
- https://www.healthline.com/health/propecia
- https://www.drugwatch.com/propecia/
- https://www.drugs.com/propecia.html
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2014/020788s024lbl.pdf
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a698016.html
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