Propecia

What is Propecia?
The medicine contains finasteride, the enzyme inhibitor that prevents a special type of enzyme from turning the male sexual hormone, testosterone, into DHT that contributes to hair loss. Men taking daily doses of finasteride suffer from much lower hair loss in the long run, and a significant number of patients actually regrow some of the previously lost hair. The drug is most efficient in the crown area of the scalp. It may only be used by male patients.

What are the indications for using Propecia?
Male pattern baldness, also known as androgenic alopecia, is the primary cause for Propecia use. Although finasteride is sometimes used by physicians to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or enlarged prostate, this particular drug has been developed for hair loss treatment in male patients. Even though male pattern hair loss is not unique to men only, Propecia must only be taken by men and never used by women or children.

What is the dosage of Propecia?
Propecia tablets come with 1 mg of finasteride content. 1 mg per day is the recommended dose for this drug. Clinical trials and medical research show this dose to be the most efficient - it provides a significant positive outcome for most treated patients while having minimal side effects. Propecia should be taken as long as the patient wishes to prevent hair loss. If the drug use is stopped, the hair loss will resume within half a year to a year.

What are the contraindications for using Propecia?
Propecia should never be taken by women or children; even tablets themselves should not be handled by them as finasteride can be absorbed through skin. Pregnant women should never come in contact with the drug, as even small amounts have been shown to cause deficiencies in the fetus development. If previous records of hypersensitivity or allergy to finasteride or chemically similar substances exist, Propecia should not be taken, as well.

What are the adverse effects of Propecia?
The side effects of Propecia use should not be noticeable for most patients taking the drug. However, in a small number of cases the patients have reported the decrease in libido (1.8%), erectile dysfunction (1.3%), and slight decrease in the ejaculate volume (1.2%). For all cases the side effects stopped after the drug use was discontinued by the patient. Personal response to the drug might differ in your particular case, so make sure to contact your doctor for a detailed consultation.