Drug Name

Propecia (Finasteride)

Drug Uses

Propecia (Finasteride) is used to treat male pattern hair loss.

How to use

 Take one tablet daily or as directed by the physician. This medicine may be taken with or without food. 
To maximize benefits, Propecia taken regularly, once a day. This medicine is usually needed to be taken regularly for 3 months for benefits to be noticeable. Once the treatment is terminated, any gain in hair quantity will be lost.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Propecia prevents the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DGT) in the body. DHT is involved in the development of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and hair loss. This medication is used to treat symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men with enlarged prostate.

Missed Dose

 If you miss doses of Propecia and you use it regularly, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Storage

Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.  Keep out of reach of children.

Warnings/Precautions

Before taking finasteride, tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this drug, or a similar medicine called dutasteride (Avodart). Finasteride should not be taken for a woman or child. Finasteride may be absorbed through the skin, while women and children should not be permitted to handle finasteride tablets. Although finasteride is not for women, this drug may cause birth defects if a woman is exposed during pregnancy. Finasteride tablets should not engage in a woman who is pregnant or who may become pregnant. If a woman accidentally comes into contact with this medicine for a broken or crushed tablet, wash the area with soap and water immediately. Call your doctor immediately if you notice any breast lumps, pain, nipple discharge or other breast changes. They may be signs of breast cancer for men. 
  There may be other drugs that may interact with finasteride. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, minerals, herbal products and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Possible Side Effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat. Call your doctor immediately if you notice any breast lumps, pain, nipple discharge or other breast changes. They may be signs of breast cancer for men. Less serious side effects may include:

• swelling in your hands or feet;
• feeling like you might pass out;
• pain in the testicles;
• swelling or tenderness in your breasts;
• impotence, loss of interest in sex, or trouble having an orgasm;
• dizziness, weakness;
• abnormal ejaculation;
• runny nose; or skin rash.
• headache;

More Information

Do not share this drug with others.