Propecia

Propecia

     * Generic Name: finasteride
     * Brand Name: Propecia


     * What is finasteride (Propecia, Proscar)?
     * What are the possible side effects of finasteride (Propecia,
       Proscar)?
     * What is the most important information I should know about
       finasteride (Propecia, Proscar)?
     * What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking
       finasteride (Propecia, Proscar)?
     * How should I take finasteride (Propecia, Proscar)?
     * What happens if I miss a dose (Propecia, Proscar)?
     * What happens if I overdose (Propecia, Proscar)?
     * What should I avoid while taking finasteride (Propecia,
       Proscar)?
     * What other drugs will affect finasteride (Propecia, Proscar)?
     * Where can I get more information (Propecia, Proscar)?

What is finasteride (Propecia, Proscar)?

   Finasteride prevents the conversion of testosterone to
   dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the body. DHT is involved in the
   development of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

   Finasteride is used to treat male pattern hair loss in men. It is also
   used to treat symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in
   men with an enlarged prostate.

   This medicine is for use in men only.

   Finasteride may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication
   guide.

What are the possible side effects of finasteride (Propecia, Proscar)?

   Get emergency medical help if you have 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 signs of male breast cancer,
   such as:
     * breast lumps;
     * breast pain or tenderness;
     * nipple discharge; or
     * any other breast changes.

   Common side effects may include:
     * loss of interest in sex;
     * impotence;
     * trouble having an orgasm; or
     * abnormal ejaculation.

   The sexual side effects of finasteride 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 is the most important information I should know about finasteride
(Propecia, Proscar)?

   Finasteride should never be taken by a woman or a child.

   Finasteride can cause birth defects if a woman is exposed to it
   during pregnancy. Finasteride tablets should not be handled by a woman
   who is pregnant or may become pregnant.

   Propecia Patient Information including How Should I Take
   Hair Loss: Causes, Treatments and Solutions for Men & Women

   Hair Loss Slideshow Pictures
   Hair and Scalp:What They Say About Your Health

   What Your Scalp and Hair Say About Your Health
   RxList

   Take the Hair Loss Quiz!

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking finasteride
(Propecia, Proscar)?

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

   This medicine 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.

   Using finasteride may increase your risk of developing prostate
   cancer. Talk with your doctor if you have concerns about this risk.

   To make sure finasteride 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).

   Although finasteride is not for use by women, this medicine can cause
   birth defects if a woman is exposed to it during pregnancy. Finasteride
   tablets should not be handled by a woman who is pregnant or who may
   become pregnant.

   If a woman accidentally comes into contact with a broken or crushed
   tablet, wash the area with soap and water right away.

How should I take finasteride (Propecia, Proscar)?

   Your doctor will perform blood tests to make sure you do not have
   conditions that would prevent you from safely using finasteride.

   Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not take this
   medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

   Take this medicine with a full glass of water.

   Finasteride can be taken with or without food. Take the medicine at the
   same time each day.

   Use finasteride 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 your symptoms improve. Keep
   using the medication as directed and tell your doctor if your symptoms
   do not improve.

   While using finasteride, you may need frequent blood tests. Your doctor
   will also test your prostate specific antigen (PSA) to check
   for prostate cancer.

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

   Propecia Patient Information including If I Miss a Dose
   Hair Loss: Causes, Treatments and Solutions for Men & Women

   Hair Loss Slideshow Pictures
   Hair and Scalp:What They Say About Your Health

   What Your Scalp and Hair Say About Your Health
   RxList

   Take the Hair Loss Quiz!

What happens if I miss a dose (Propecia, Proscar)?

   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 (Propecia, Proscar)?

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

What should I avoid while taking finasteride (Propecia, Proscar)?

   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.

What other drugs will affect finasteride (Propecia, Proscar)?

   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.

Where can I get more information (Propecia, Proscar)?

   Your pharmacist can provide more information about finasteride.
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