Propecia, also known as finasteride, is a drug used to treat hair loss in men (and only men. This drug is NOT approved for use in women or children). Androgenetic Alopecia, a fancy name for male pattern hair loss, is caused by a production of a hormone called dihydrotestosterone, or DHT. Propecia works by keeping testosterone from being turned into DHT, reducing production by up to 65% after the first dose. This, in time, allows a fuller head of hair to grow with continued use. Propecia is a once daily, oral pill that can be taken with or without food to help treat male pattern baldness. Propecia should be taken at the same time every day so as to increase the effectiveness.
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Propecia prices
Propecia is not a cheap medication, typically running more than $1 a day. Propecia runs about $75 per month and is typically not covered by insurance. Merck, the manufacturer of Propecia, offers incentives to customers, such as $60 off the first 90 days and up to $200 off the fourth 90-day supply. It may take up to three months or more to see positive effects of Propecia. Some report that it may take a full year in order to notice the full effects of Propecia. However, discontinuing the use of Propecia is not recommended as it will lead to a reversal of effects. This means one’s baldness will come back, within 12 months of discontinuing the drug.
Side effects
While Propecia may help in resolving male pattern baldness, there are some serious side effects to consider before adding this drug to your regimen. Foremost, make sure to discuss potential drug interactions. It is important to disclose other medications (and herbal supplements) that are being taken before starting Propecia as drug interactions are possible. It’s also important to consider the potential side effects of Propecia. While side effects are rare with less than one in ten men reporting side effects while taking Propecia, it is important to know the risks associated with the drug. The most common side effects with Propecia are sexual in nature, including erectile dysfunction, ejaculation disorder, and decreased libido. Other side effects that one may see include, but are not limited to, rashes, hives, and swelling, indicative of an allergic reaction, male breast cancer, testicular enlargement, and depression.
Precautions
As with any medication, one should consult their doctor immediately if experiencing any of these side effects. Some of these side effects may resolve if Propecia is discontinued. Others may continue for months or years. Some patients reported that sexual function did not return to normal. Patients with liver problems should be exceptionally careful and cautious as Propecia is metabolized through the liver and can result in further damage. It is also incredibly important that pregnant women do not handle crushed or broken Propecia since DHT plays a critical role in the development of male genitalia. It is possible that the finasteride may be absorbed when a woman comes in contact with crushed or broken Propecia which could pose a risk to the unborn fetus, including abnormalities of external genitalia. There appears to be no risk associated with pregnant women handling whole Propecia as there is a protective coating that will prevent the absorption of the finasteride.
I have been working in General Practice since 2006.
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