PROPECIA PROPECIA® (finasteride), available only by prescription, is an exciting weapon in the battle against male pattern hair loss. PROPECIA blocks the formation of DHT and in this way appears to interrupt a key factor in the development of inherited male pattern hair loss in men. PROPECIA was developed to treat male pattern hair loss in the vertex (at top of head) and anterior mid-scalp area. PROPECIA is for use by MEN ONLY and should NOT be used by women.

Before taking Propecia, tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this medication, or to a similar medicine called dutasteride (Avodart). Also tell your doctor if you have:

• liver disease, or abnormal liver enzyme tests;
• prostate cancer;
• a bladder muscle disorder;
• stricture of your urethra; or
• if you are unable to urinate.

Propecia should never be taken by a woman or a child. Finasteride can be absorbed through the skin, and women or children should not be permitted to handle Propecia tablets. Although Propecia is not for use by women, this medication can cause birth defects if a woman is exposed to it during pregnancy. Propecia tablets should not be handled by a woman who is pregnant or who may become pregnant. Propecia tablets are coated and will prevent contact with the active ingredient during normal handling, provided that the tablets are not broken or crushed. If a woman accidentally comes into contact with this medication from a broken or crushed tablet, wash the area with soap and water right away.

How should I take Propecia?

Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Take this medicine with a full glass of water.

Propecia can be taken with or without food.

It is important to use Propecia regularly to get the most benefit. You may need to take Propecia daily for three months or more before you see a benefit. Propecia can only work over the long term if you continue taking it. If the drug has not worked for you in twelve months, further treatment is unlikely to be of benefit. If you stop taking Propecia, you will likely lose the hair you have gained within 12 months of stopping treatment. You should discuss this with your doctor. Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. An overdose of Propecia is not expected to produce life-threatening symptoms.

What should I avoid while taking Propecia?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity while you are using Propecia.

Avoid getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position, or you may feel dizzy. Get up slowly and steady yourself to prevent a fall.

Propecia side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you notice any breast lumps, pain, nipple discharge, or other breast changes. These may be signs of male breast cancer.

Less serious side effects may 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.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.

What other drugs will affect Propecia?

There may be other drugs that can interact with Propecia. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Disclaimer
This information is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice. Be sure to contact your physician, pharmacist or other health care provider for more information about this medication.