Propecia
Category: Skin And Hair Care
Generic name: Finasteride
Propecia tablets
What are Propecia tablets for?
Propecia reduces the size of the prostate in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia. The prostate is a gland in male reproductive system that produces fluid for sperm. After the age of 50 most men suffer from an enlarged prostate. As the prostate becomes bigger it can impede the flow of urine. Propecia helps to reduce symptoms such as difficulty urinating, a feeling that the bladder is not completely empty; enuresis, etc. Propecia is also used for treating of pattern male hair loss. Propecia should not be used in women. There are Generic Propecia as well.
What should I inform my health care provider about before taking this medicine?
You should inform them if any of the following conditions listed may apply to you.
- prostate cancer
- kidney disease or infection
- an allergic reaction to the components of Propecia
- liver disease
How is the medicine taken?
The Propecia tablets are taken by mouth. Keep to the directions on the instruction label. Swallow the tablets with some water. This medication could be taken with or without food. The doses are to be taken at regular intervals at the same time to remember taking it. It is not recommended to take the drug more often than prescribed.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
In case if you happen miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and keep to your regular schedule.
What drugs interact with Propecia?
- Some certain blood pressure medications
- testosterone
- saw palmetto
- soy supplements
Inform your physician or health care professional about all other drugs you are taking, including medicines which do not require prescription. Also inform your health care professional if you often use drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you are a smoke, if you are a recreational drug user. These may interfere with your medicine effect. Consult with your physician before you stop or start any of your medications.
What side effects may cause Propecia?
You may experience any of the following side effects while taking the drug:
- breast tenderness or enlargement
- less sexual desire or ability to get an erection
- small amount of semen produced during sex
- skin rash
If they persist, contact your physician immediately.
Though, most people taking Propecia do not experience any side effect at all.
What I should be informed about before taking Propecia?
You should not donate blood until at least 6 months after the end of treatment with Propecia. This will prevent getting Propecia to a pregnant female blood through a blood transfusion.
Check with your physician or health care professional if you experience no improvement in your symptoms. You may need to use Propecia for 6 to 12 months for the best effects.
Women who are pregnant must avoid handling broken or crushed Propecia tablets; the medical ingredient could harm the fetus. If a woman during pregnancy comes into contact with broken or crushed Propecia, she should necessarily check with her physician or health care professional. Exposure to whole tablets will not cause harm unless swallowed.
Propecia may influence laboratory tests for prostate cancer. If you need to have a lab test for prostate cancer, inform your physician that you are taking Propecia.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep Propecia tablets out of the reach of children and domestic pats.
It should be stored between 59 and 86 degrees F in a dry, dark place. Do not use the drug after expiration date.
