Propecia

Drug uses

Propecia is a medicine used to treat hair loss in men and prostate enlargement. As for the latter case, the medicine blocks the production of a natural substance in the body that enlarges prostate and it allows the prostate to shrink.

How taken

Propecia comes as a table taken orally once a day. The tablet must be taken with a glass of water. It’s important to take the medicine regularly and do not miss doses in order to achieve the needed effect.

Doses are variable but usually the doctor recommends 5 mg a day to help prostate enlargement and 1 mg to stop hair loss.

Tablets shouldn’t be crushed or chewed but swallowed as one whole.

Precautions

1 Strictly follow the doctor’s recommendations and never change the dosage yourself but take Propecia as directed.

2 Propecia is used only by men and must not be taken by women or children.

3 Propecia may absorb through the skin as well.

4 It is recommended to continue the treatment even if you already feel the effect.

5 Such medical conditions as liver or urination problems may be the reason you shouldn’t take the medicine. Consult with your doctor and make sure he/she knows about any medical problems you have.

6 The medicine may start working within 3 months of treatment.

7 Make sure your doctor knows about any medications you are taking at the moment including vitamins, nitrate-based medications, any supplements, azole antifungals, cimetidine, high blood pressure medicines, erythromycin, rifamycins, miberfradil and herbs.

8 Discuss with your doctor if you can drink grapefruit juice and eat grapefruit itself during the treatment.

Missed dose

If you missed a dose and suddenly remembered about it on the same day, take it immediately. Skip this dose if you remembered about it later. Never take 2 doses at a time.

Side effects

If an allergy has occurred, call the emergency immediately. There are also some other side effects such as breast enlargement, giddiness, diarrhea, pain in the back, headache, decreased ejaculation and sexual desire and even impotence.

If any of them occur, tell your doctor immediately.

Storage

Ø Store at room temperature

Ø Keep away from damp places

Ø Sore in a container tightly closed

Ø Keep away from children

Ø Do not keep an outdated medicine

Overdose

Cases of overdose haven’t been observed.

Disclaimer

The information about Propecia mentioned above is to serve as an information source only and to add to the doctor’s judgment. You must see your doctor before taking the medicine and he/she’ll determine whether it’s suitable and safe for you.