propecia

Generic Name: finasteride (fih NAH steh ride) Brand Names: Propecia, Proscar

propecia prevents the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the body. propecia is used for the treatment of male pattern hair loss on the vertex and the anterior mid-scalp area. Male pattern hair loss is a common condition in which men experience thinning of the hair on the scalp. Often, this results in a receding hairline and/or balding on the top of the head. propecia is for use by men only and should not be used by women or children. propecia may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

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 finasteride tablets, 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. 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.

Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to valacyclovir or acyclovir (Zovirax). If you have certain conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take this medication. Before taking propecia, tell your doctor if you have: * HIV/AIDS, or other conditions that can weaken the immune system; * kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis); or * if you have had a kidney or bone marrow transplant. FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. However, herpes virus can be passed from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. If you have genital herpes, it is very important to prevent herpes lesions during your pregnancy so that you do not have a genital lesion when your baby is born. propecia passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant. Do not take this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not give propecia to a child unless it has been prescribed by a doctor. Older adults may be more likely to have harmful side effects while taking propecia. Talk to your doctor about your specific risk.

Take propecia 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 propecia at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

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.

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.

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.