Propecia
Finasteride
Drug Class and Mechanism of Action of Propecia
Propecia is a 5-alpha reductase enzyme inhibitor. Propecia acts by preventing conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in our body. Dihydrotestosterone is involved in the development of prostate enlargement known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and hair loss. So, Propecia is used to treat symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men, especially in elderly males.
Therapeutic Uses of Propecia
Propecia is used in treatment of male pattern of hair loss. It is also used in treatment of BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia).
Direction of use of Propecia
Propecia should be taken orally one tablet a day. It can be taken with food or on empty stomach. To get any noticeable benefits with Propecia, it should be taken for at least 3 months and continued taking it without any gap. To get the best result it should be taken once a day and should not be stopped, because if you stop taking Propecia any gain in hair quantity will be lost.
If You Miss a Dose of Propecia
If you miss a dose of Propecia you should take it as soon as you can remember it. If it is time for the next dose you should skip the missed dose any continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses of Propecia at a time.
How to Store Propecia
Propecia should be stored at room temperature. Store it away from heat, moisture and sunlight in a well closed container. Keep Propecia out of reach of children.
More Information About Propecia
You should not share Propecia with others. If you have any question about Propecia you should ask your doctor.
Precautions to be Taken While Taking Propecia
- If you have allergy to Propecia, you should inform your doctor before taking it. You should also inform your doctor if you have allergy to similar drug called dutasteride.
- Propecia should not be taken by children or women. Any exposure of women to Propecia can cause birth defect (not used by women, but there may be accidental exposure).
- Propecia can be absorbed through the skin, and women or children should not be permitted to handle finasteride tablets as there is chance of accidental exposure.
- Propecia tablets should not be handled by a woman who is pregnant or by a woman who may become pregnant. If a woman (especially pregnant woman) accidentally gets exposed with this medication from a broken or crushed tablet, wash the area with soap and water right away and consult your doctor.
- Consult your doctor immediately if you notice any breast lumps, pain, nipple discharge, or other breast changes during treatment with Propecia, as these may be signs of male breast cancer.
- Some drugs may interact with Propecia. Inform your doctor about all your prescription medicines and over the counter (OTC) medications or non prescription medicines, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, diet supplements and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without asking your doctor.
Possible Adverse Effects of Propecia
- Consult your doctor immediately if you get any allergic reaction to Propecia. Symptoms of allergic reaction are hives, difficulty in breathing, swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
- Get immediate medical attention if you find any signs of male breast cancer like any breast lumps, pain, nipple discharge, or other breast changes.
- The less serious side effects of Propecia are pain in the testicles, impotence, loss of interest in sex, trouble having an orgasm, abnormal ejaculation, swelling in your hands, swelling in feet, feeling like you might pass out, dizziness, weakness, headache, skin rash, running nose, swelling in breasts, tenderness in breasts etc.
- If you experience any other side effect that is not listed above you should consult your doctor immediately.
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