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Propecia

Generic Name: finasteride (fin AS ter ide)
Brand Names: Propecia, Proscar

What is Propecia?

Propecia (finasteride) is a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor. Finasteride works by decreasing the amount of a hormone called DHT (dihydrotestosterone) in the body. DHT is involved in the development of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and male pattern hair loss.

Propecia is used to treat male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) in men only. It is also used under the brand name Proscar to treat symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men with an enlarged prostate.

Propecia is FDA-approved for use in men aged 18 and older.

Important information

Propecia should never be taken by women or children. Finasteride can be absorbed through the skin, and women or children should not be permitted to handle Propecia tablets.

Propecia can cause birth defects in male babies. A pregnant woman should not handle crushed or broken Propecia tablets. The medicine may harm an unborn baby.

Propecia may affect prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests used to screen for prostate cancer. If you are scheduled for a PSA test, tell your doctor you are taking Propecia.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Propecia if you are allergic to finasteride.

To make sure Propecia is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

• liver disease, or abnormal liver enzyme tests;
• prostate cancer;
• a bladder muscle disorder;
• stricture of your urethra;
• if you are unable to urinate; or
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to a similar medicine called dutasteride (Avodart).

Propecia should not be used by women. 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 medicine 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.

How should I take Propecia?

Take Propecia exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Propecia can be taken with or without food.

Propecia is usually taken once daily. Take the medicine at the same time each day.

Use Propecia regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.

It may take up to 3 months or longer before you notice results from Propecia. For best results, keep using the medication as directed. Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 3 months of treatment.

Store 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. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking 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 signs of an allergic reaction to Propecia: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you notice any signs of male breast cancer, such as:

• breast lumps
• pain
• nipple discharge
• other breast changes

Common Propecia side effects may include:

• loss of interest in sex;
• trouble having an orgasm;
• abnormal ejaculation;
• swelling in your hands or feet;
• swelling or tenderness in your breasts;
• dizziness, weakness;
• feeling like you might pass out;
• headache;
• runny nose; or
• skin rash.

The sexual side effects of Propecia may continue after you stop taking this medicine. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns about these side effects.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Propecia?

Other drugs may interact with finasteride, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Additional Information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use Propecia only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Dosing Information

Usual Adult Dose for Androgenetic Alopecia:

• 1 mg orally once a day
• Duration of therapy: Efficacy has been demonstrated for up to 5 years

Usual Adult Dose for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia:

• 5 mg orally once a day
• Duration of therapy: Long term

Detailed Propecia dosage information

Pregnancy and Propecia

Propecia is not approved for use by women and should not be taken during pregnancy. Pregnant women should not handle crushed or broken Propecia tablets. The medicine can be absorbed through the skin and may cause birth defects in male babies. 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.

Propecia and Breast Cancer

There have been post-marketing reports of male breast cancer in patients taking Propecia, although a causal relationship to finasteride use has not been established. Patients should promptly report to their physicians any changes in their breasts such as lumps, pain, or nipple discharge.

Propecia and Prostate Cancer

Propecia may affect PSA test results used to screen for prostate cancer. Your doctor should be aware you are taking Propecia when evaluating PSA test results. Propecia does not appear to increase the risk of developing prostate cancer.

Drug Interactions

Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. When you are taking finasteride, it is especially important that your healthcare professional know if you are taking any of the medicines listed below:

• Carbamazepine
• Phenobarbital
• Phenytoin
• Rifampin

These medicines may cause Propecia to be less effective in treating your condition.

Storage

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.

This information has been compiled for use by healthcare practitioners and consumers. It is based on scientific literature and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions regarding medical conditions or medications.