Overview
Propecia, the brand name for the medication finasteride, treats hair loss in men. According to Drugs.com, a reliable online drug reference, Propecia can help with the regrowth of hair on the top of the head and surrounding hairline. RxList.com reports that Propecia treats male-pattern baldness and is safe for use in men 18 to 41 years of age.
Important Facts
According to Drugs.com, women and children should not use or touch Propecia. Pregnant women can harm the unborn child by ingesting or handling a broken Propecia tablet. If accidental contact occurs, wash your hands with soap and water immediately and call a health care provider if signs of breast cancer develop, such as breast lumps, nipple discharge, pain or other unusual breast changes.
Additional Uses
Mayo Clinic reports that finasteride, the generic form of Propecia, can also treat symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia, or enlarged prostate, in men. This medication decreases symptoms such as trouble urinating, decreased flow of urine and frequent trips to the bathroom. Alleviation of these symptoms can reduce the need for surgery. Discontinuing the use of this medication will result in re-enlargement of the prostate.
Proper Use
Prior to taking Propecia, Drugs.com instructs patients to notify a health care provider of any of the following conditions: liver disorders, prostate cancer, and disorders of the bladder muscles or other bladder problems. Take Propecia with a full glass of water with or without food. Consistent use of this medication will provide the best results. Stopping Propecia will cause hair loss. If no improvements occur within 12 months, this medication will probably not work for you. Store this medication in a secure bottle at room temperature away from heat and moisture.
Side Effects
If an allergic reaction occurs, immediately contact emergency medical care. According to Drugs.com life-threatening side effects include hives; trouble breathing; and swelling of the tongue, throat, face and lips. Other less serious side effects of Propecia are feeling faint, swelling in the hands or feet, painful testicles, impotence, abnormal ejaculation, tender or sore breasts, dizziness, weakness, headache, and runny nose. Patients should avoid changing positions too quickly while taking Propecia. Moving from a lying position to sitting or standing can cause dizziness and increase the chance of injury due to falls.
Availability
According to RxList, Propecia comes in the form of a 1 mg film-coated tan, octagonal convex-shaped tablet. Propecia is an approved medication by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
