The article explains how Propecia works, describes the possible side effects associated with Propecia, and compares its advantages and disadvantages. It also includes practical information that may be useful for patients.
Cases When Propecia Can Be Prescribed
Propecia, also known as Finasteride, is mainly used to prevent the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the male body. Propecia is used for the treatment of male pattern hair loss around the vertex and the anterior mid-scalp area. Male pattern hair loss is a common condition marked by thinning hair on the scalp. This usually leads to a receding hairline and/or baldness around the top area of the head. Propecia is prescribed only for men and must not be taken by women or infants.
In addition to male pattern hair loss, also referred to as androgenetic alopecia, Propecia is also prescribed for male patients with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), which is caused by enlargement of the prostate. Men with BPH commonly experience difficulty urinating, reduced urine flow, hesitation before urination, and a repeated need to wake up at night to urinate. Propecia usually helps reduce the severity of these symptoms and lowers the probability of prostate surgery in the future. Propecia can be taken alone or together with other drugs, such as an alpha-blocker, i.e. Doxazosin or Cardura, to treat BPH. Male patients with hair loss may notice improved hair growth on the scalp while taking Propecia, but they should not expect increased body hair growth.
Propecia blocks the action of an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase. This enzyme is usually responsible for converting testosterone into another hormone, which contributes to prostate growth and hair loss. Because of this, Propecia helps improve testosterone levels, reduce prostate size, and support scalp hair growth. Please note that the effects of Propecia on the prostate and scalp usually last only while the medication is being taken. Once drug intake is stopped, the prostate may begin growing again, and hair loss may continue.
Suitable Dosage and Appropriate Methods of Taking Propecia
The dosage and administration schedule are very important in Propecia treatment, since they directly affect the overall effectiveness of the therapy and the possible occurrence of side effects. Propecia should be taken only according to a doctor’s instructions, without changing the dosage or treatment duration unless a healthcare specialist tells you otherwise. Propecia can be taken with or without meals.
Propecia comes with a patient information leaflet. It should be read carefully, and all instructions should be followed at all times. Any questions should be discussed with a doctor.
If the medication is used to treat male pattern hair loss, it may take at least 3 months before results become visible. Please note that the medication does not permanently treat hair loss, but rather supports scalp hair growth during administration. Hair growth continues only while the medication is being taken. Newly grown hair may be lost within 1 year after drug administration is stopped.
If the medication is used for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), it may take up to 6 months to observe the full effects. Propecia does not cure BPH, but it helps reduce prostate size and ease related symptoms. The effect on the prostate is expected to last only during drug administration. Once treatment is stopped, the prostate may start growing again after several months.
Tablets for oral administration include the following dosage:
- To treat Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH):
- Adults — 5 milligrams (mg) 1 time per day.
- Infants — Propecia is not recommended for administration.
- To treat male pattern hair loss:
- Adults — 1 milligram (mg) 1 time per day.
- Infants — Propecia is not recommended for administration.
Any missed dose of Propecia should be skipped, and the regular administration schedule should be continued. Do not double the dosage to make up for a missed dose. Take Propecia at the same time every day to achieve the desired effects.
Critical Information and Key Precautions
Regular follow-up visits with your doctor are very important for tracking treatment progress and confirming whether Propecia is working effectively and should continue to be taken. You may also need blood tests to check for unwanted effects, if any occur.
Propecia is contraindicated for women and kids. Pregnant women or women who may become pregnant soon should avoid touching broken or crushed pills, because Propecia may be absorbed through the skin and cause birth defects in babies. If this drug comes into contact with a woman’s skin, the affected area must be washed with water and soap.
Propecia may cause changes in breast tissue. For this reason, you should consult your physician if you notice any lumps, tenderness, pain, or enlargement in the breast area during Propecia treatment.
Propecia may also reduce the amount of ejaculated sperm during sex, but it should not affect sperm count or the ability to conceive children.
Possible Side Effects Resulted from Propecia Treatment
Since Propecia is considered a relatively strong medicine, it is important to monitor your health condition throughout the full treatment period and report any changes in your well-being to a healthcare specialist.
The following side effects should be reported to the doctor without delay once they are observed:
- Cold sweat;
- Chills;
- Overall Confusion;
- Dizziness;
- Feeling as if you are about to pass out;
- Lightheaded sensations when you stand up from sitting or lying.
Some side effects may not require medical attention, since they often disappear after some time as your body adjusts to the new medicine.
However, if the following side effects persist, please seek for assistance from doctor:
- Reduced interest in sex;
- Problems to attain or maintain an erection;
- Loss of sexual drive, desire, or performance.
Frequently Asked Questions Associated with Propecia
What does DHT stand for?
DHT (DiHydroTestosterone) represents one of hormones present inside male body. DHT is very important for the early development of a male fetus, but in an adult male it can contribute to:
- Acne;
- Prostate Enlargement;
- Male Pattern Baldness;
- Hair Growth (inside the nose, ears, and on the back).
When is the most suitable time to initiate Propecia treatment?
The most appropriate option is to start Propecia treatment as soon as you begin noticing health issues. Delaying the start of Propecia treatment may have a negative effect on health. Likewise, patients who started treatment with Propecia earlier usually have better results compared with patients who began treatment later.
Has Propecia proven to be effective for all men?
In general, Propecia is believed to be effective for all men. Some male patients have better results than others, and the reasons for this may be completely different. Independent studies have not confirmed any differences or connections related to various ethnic groups.
Conclusion
Propecia has proven successful in blocking the activity of 5-alpha-reductase enzymes, restoring normal prostate function, and helping hair growth start again. A number of independent studies, as well as positive feedback from male clients, confirm that Propecia can be administered to address issues associated with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), provided that appropriate control methods, precautions, and continuous supervision by a healthcare practitioner are in place.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Do not use it to purchase, start, stop, or change treatment without consulting a qualified healthcare professional. Product names, trademarks, companies, and studies are mentioned only for informational and legal reference.