What is Propecia?

Propecia is an oral medication designed to treat male pattern hair loss on the vertex (top) and anterior mid scalp area. Propecia has not been proven to treat hair loss at the hairline.

Has Propecia been tested?

Propecia was studied in men ages 18 to 41 that showed mild to moderate hair loss. There was not enough evidence to support Propecia as a treatment for hair loss at the temporal areas of the head. Propecia is a treatment that should only be used by men. Because the active ingredient in Propecia has the power to cause abnormalities in a developing child, pregnant women should never use or touch a broken tablet. Propecia also has the ability to affect the PSA test, a screen for prostate cancer. If you are going to have the PSA test, you should remind your doctor you are taking Propecia.

Does Propecia really work?

Based on two studies over 24 months, 83% of the men in the trial suffering hair loss maintained their hair count. Additionally, 66% of these men had visible regrowth of hair as reported by a 3rd party dermatologist. Most men in the study reported an increase in hair growth and a decrease in hair loss. You may need to take Propecia daily for 3 months or more before you are able to see visible results. Propecia is not guaranteed to regrow all your hair and if you stop using Propecia, you will gradually lose all the hair it has regrown. If after 12 months you do not see sufficient hair growth evidence, further treatment is likely to be of little benefit. Taken once a day in tablet form Propecia is proven to grow real strands of hair back.

What are the most common side effects of Propecia?

The most common side effects in men where decreased sexual response and function. These side effects appeared in less than 2% of men and went away when the men stopped taking Propecia.

How does Propecia work?

It is believed that DHT, a hormone in the male body, is a prime candidate for hair loss. Propecia blocks the formation of DHT in the scalp region. By blocking DHT in the scalp normal hair loss and regrowth patterns will continue, avoiding thinning and eventual permanent hair loss.

Who should not take Propecia?

Propecia is only for men, designed to stop DHT, a hormone in men that deteriorates normal hair growth patterns. Women who are pregnant should not handle a broken tablet. All tablets are coated so that normal handling will not place anyone in contact with the active ingredient.

How should Propecia be taken?

Consult your doctor before beginning to take Propecia. When taking Propecia please follow your doctor’s dosage recommendations. Exceeding your doctors prescribed dosage will not increase the effectiveness of Propecia. You will need to continue to take Propecia for as long as you wish to have the benefit of the medication. Once you stop taking Propecia, you will gradually lose all the hair it has regrown. Propecia is supplied in 1-milligram tablets, and may be taken with or without food. Propecia is a prescription medication and can only be purchased after a visit with your doctor or other healthcare professional.

Can I take Propecia if I am taking any other medications?

You should always consult with your doctor before taking any new medication. But Propecia has been tested in combination with a multitude of other drugs and no interactions were discovered.

The information within this FAQ is for your benefit, but cannot replace the advice of your doctor. Only a doctor can assess the risks and benefits of Propecia to you based on your own personal medical history. Please keep all prescription medications out of the reach of children.