Propecia Fact Sheet
Generic Name
The generic name of Propecia is Finasteride.
Uses for Propecia
Propecia (Finesteride) is used treat and prevent hairloss in men. The active ingredient Finasteride, blocks the formation of DHT (one of the male hormones that causes hairloss), and gives the hair follicles a chance to recover and grow.
How to Use Propecia
Take one tablet daily, with or without meals.
Side Effects of Propecia
In general use, the following have been reported infrequently: allergic reactions including rash, itching, hives and swelling of the lips and face, problems with ejaculation, breast tenderness and enlargement, and testicular pain.
A small number of men experienced certain sexual side effects. These men reported one or more of the following: less desire for sex; difficulty in achieving an erection; and, a decrease in the amount of semen. Each of these side effects occurred in less than 2% of men.
Propecia may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.
Precautions when taking Propecia
Results vary from person to person. Propecia lowers readings of the PSA screening test for prostate cancer. If you're scheduled to have your PSA level checked, make sure the doctor knows you're taking Propecia. It may take several months for the Propecia to work. Do not stop taking this medicine without checking with your doctor. Stopping this medicine will result in a return within 12 months to the same amount of baldness as when you started. Women who are or may potentially be pregnant must not use Propecia and should not handle crushed or broken tablets of Propecia. If a woman who is pregnant with a male baby absorbs the active ingredient in Propecia, either by swallowing or through the skin, it may cause abnormalities of a male baby’s sex organs.
If you Miss a Dose of Propecia
If you miss a dose of this medicine and you remember the same day, take it as soon as possible. If you do not remember until the next day, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.
