Propecia FAQ
Propecia is a surprisingly effective hair loss treatment for adult males. Of course, there are many questions associated with this type of treatment. We’ve done our best to catalogue the most common questions and their appropriate answers:
Q) What is Propecia exactly?
A) Propecia is an effective hair loss treatment for adult males. It’s primary active ingredient is Finasteride, an inhibitor that prevents the hormone Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) secretion in the scalp. DHT is associated with prostate cancer development and male hair loss.
The tablet comes in 1mg doses.
Q) How do I take Propecia?
A) You take Propecia once daily. Do not make up for missed doses by taking multiple doses unless your doctor deems it acceptable.
Q) What are the major side effects of Propecia?
A) The side effects associated with Propecia are general mild in nature and occur in a very small percentage of users. However, the most common side effects are: decreased sexual desire, decrease in sperm count, difficulty achieving an erection. These side effects were rare in subjects taking Propecia and in most instances where they appeared they went away during their usage time.
Other side effects include: allergic reactions, itching, hives, swelling, ejaculatory problems, muscle tenderness, and testicular pain. If you experience any of these side effects cease taking Propecia immediately and consult with your doctor for an alternate treatment.
Q) Should I take Propecia?
A) Propecia is designed for males that are over the age of 18 and is suitable for any male experiencing hair loss. However, you should not take Propecia if you have liver problems, as Propecia is metabolized in the liver.
Women should not take Propecia under any circumstances.
If you are trying to start a family or have a child it is recommended that you cease taking Propecia one week before you begin trying. This will ensure that all traces of Propecia are out of your system. Though Propecia has been found to have no impact on fetal growth, maintaining a one-week gap acts as a safety measure.
Q) How effective is Propecia?
A) Clinical trials and independent studies have shown an effectiveness rate of just over 80% in men that were taking Propecia. These results are actually quite common and underline Propecia’s effectiveness.
In fact, two thirds of the participants taking Propecia experienced new hair growth, versus just 7% of those taking the placebo.