Testing that May Occur While Taking Propecia
Sunday, December 2nd, 2007Propecia is known to lower the amount of prostate-specific antigen, or PSA, that is found in the blood. Since this is known to happen while taking Propecia, your doctor will perform routine blood tests that will monitor the decrease in the amount of PSA. Your doctor may also perform other types of monitoring while you are taking Propecia.
One of the most routine tests that are performed, during the course of treatment with Propecia, is a test that is designed to help detect prostate cancer. This test will use the amount of PSA in your blood in order to assist in the early detection of prostate cancer. This is a routine test that is performed on most men who take Propecia, as a once-a-day treatment for hair loss.
The reason that your doctor will test the amount of PSA in your blood is to ensure that the amount of PSA has not been reduced significantly. Also, during the course of your treatment other blood work may be performed. However, this is common when starting any type of new prescription medication.
When you are taking Propecia, it is important that you follow all of your doctor’s or pharmacist’s dosing instructions. You want to ensure that you take Propecia with eight ounces of water. Studies have proven that Propecia can be taken before or after eating. After you have taken your daily tablet, you should store Propecia in a storage cabinet that is cool and at least four feet off the ground.