Propecia helps to reduce the thinning of the hair on the scalp. It is also used by some doctors for treating symptoms associated with BPH or Benign Prostate Hyperplasia.
How to use Propecia
Speak to your medical practitioner to know about accurate dosage instructions. Alternatively, check the medicine label for detailed instructions.
Propecia may be taken with or without a meal.
If you take the medicine at the same time each day, it will help you to avoid missing any doses. Treatment with Propecia may continue for several weeks and it may take at least 12 weeks for the results to start showing.
Do not change your dosage (increase or decrease it) or stop the dosage suddenly without consulting your medical practitioner.
Missed Dose
You must take the medicine regularly for it to be effective. Avoid missing any doses.
If you miss a dose, take one dose as soon as you remember about it. But if it is nearly time for the next dose, then skip the missed dose and continue with the next dose.
Do not take two doses together to compensate for the single missed dose. It may lead to an overdose.
Storage
Store it at room temperature that is 59 to 77 degrees F (15 and 25 Degrees). Keep it safely in a place that is out of reach of pets and kids.
You cannot use Propecia if:
• You are allergic to any ingredient in it
• You are allergic to a similar medicine called Dutasteride (Avodart)
• You are a woman or a child
Speak to your doctor about:
• Your complete medical history
• Any allergic reactions that you may have to drugs, OTC medications, supplements or herbal formulations
• All medicines that you are currently using
• If you have liver disease or abnormal liver enzyme tests;
• You have prostate cancer
• You have a bladder muscle disorder;
• You have a stricture of your urethra;
• If you are unable to urinate
Important Information
Symptoms like breast lumps, pain, nipple discharge, or other breast changes may be an indication of breast cancer. If you notice any such symptoms, then contact a doctor immediately.
Doctors will prescribe some tests to ensure that you can use Propecia Safely without it increasing the risk of Prostate Cancer in you.
Pregnancy
Propecia is in the FDA pregnancy category X which means that it can cause severe harm to the fetus.
The drug is very strong and easily absorbed through the skin and hence is coated to prevent the active ingredient from coming into contact with the skin. If you are pregnant and come in contact with a broken capsule of Propecia, then wash the area with soap and warm water immediately and seek emergency medical attention. It may cause severe birth defects.
Mild side effects may be commonly seen as you begin therapy with a new medication. These usually fade away by itself and do not require special medical care. However, if they become bothersome then contact your doctor.
The mild and common side effects associated with Propecia are as follows:
• Feeling like you might pass out
• Swelling in your hands or feet
• A Pain in the testicles
• Impotence
• Loss of interest in sex
• Trouble having an orgasm
• Abnormal ejaculation
• Swelling or tenderness in your breasts
• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Headache
• Runny nose
• Skin rash
Rarely, some drugs also cause severe side effects that require urgent medical treatment. The serious side effects associated with Propecia are hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Please seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of these severe side effects.
