Propecia and its uses

Propecia is a medication that is used to regrow lost hair in people suffering from male pattern hairloss both on the mid scalp region as well as on the top of the head. It is an anti androgen medication.

The Recommended way to use Propecia

The best way to use any medication is as recommended by your health care provider. But if you have any doubts, you can always follow the instructions listed in the patient information booklet that accompanies the pack.

The ideal dosage is one tablet a day for 3 months.

You may take it with or without food to avoid an upset stomach.

Propecia needs to be swallowed whole. Taking it with a full glass of water may reduce the discomfort some people experience while swallowing medication.

It should not be chewed or broken or crushed unless your doctor has permitted it.

A medication may take up to a few weeks to take effect in your body. You may experience symptomatic relief intermittently. But you must not discontinue the dosage schedule nor alter it without consulting your physician.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

Almost 80% of people tend to forget taking their medication on time. Hence, one of the best ways of avoiding a missed dose is to make a written note of the dosage timings or set reminders in your cellular phone.

But, if you still miss out on a dose, then you can take it as soon as you remember and then adjust the next dosage accordingly. On the other hand, you can also choose to skip the missed dose and continue normally from the next dosage schedule onwards.

You must never take a double dose to compensate for a missed dose. It may have adverse effects.

Please speak to your doctor if you have any questions regarding missed doses.

Drug Class and Mechanism

The conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) has some adverse effects which include prostate cancer, BPH and hair loss. Propecia works by preventing this conversion.

How and where should I store Propecia?

We recommend you do not store the medications in a place exposed to high humidity or direct sunlight. Medications should generally be stored between 68 and 77 degrees F. Keep it in a safe place that is beyond the reach of children and pets.

Temporary storage in temperatures below room temperature may be permitted for some drugs. Please check the medicine label for more details.

What if I overdose on Propecia?

If you think that you have exceeded the permitted dosage levels, then seek emergency medical care.

Safety Information/ Warning Precautions

Before commencing treatment with any new medication, you must discuss your complete medical history with your health care provider. You must include details about any diseases, allergic reactions that you have to food items as well as medications.

Discuss a complete list of health supplements, over the counter medications, vitamins, herbal pills that you are taking.

This information helps your health care provider analyze your condition and then suggest an apt dosage for you.

Is there any reason to avoid Propecia?

Yes, you must avoid using Propecia if you are allergic to any ingredient in it. Other than this, usage of Propecia is restricted if you any of the following applies to you.

You are allergic to another similar medication called dutasteride (Avodart)

Are there any other important things I must know before using Propecia?

Propecia is a potent medication that is harmful to an unborn baby. It is absorbed rapidly through the skin. So, if you are women of childbearing age and you come in contact with a broken capsule of Propecia, then you must wash the area immediately with soap and water. Seek medical attention now.

Your lab personnel, dentist and physician should know that you are using Propecia before you undergo any major surgical or dental procedure.

If you notice any symptoms of breast lumps, pain, nipple discharge, or other breast changes. These may be signs of male breast cancer.

Pregnancy

If you are a women who is pregnant already or are planning to become pregnant, then contact your health care provider and discuss the potential risks to the baby.

It is not clear whether Propecia is found in breast milk. It may be excreted in the breast milk and can pass on to the baby. Discuss this with your doctor.

Side Effects

Some common but mild side effects are usually seen when starting treatment with any new medication including Propecia. But these are temporary and fade away as the body gets used to the medication. These include

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

If these side effects start bothering you, then seek medical attention.

Although rare, Propecia may also cause some potentially dangerous side effects like an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

These should be reported immediately to your health care provider.