Propecia tablets contain the active ingredient finasteride, which is a type of drug called a type II 5-alpha reductase inhibitor.
Finasteride works by inhibiting the action of a compound in the body called type II 5-alpha reductase. This compound is called an enzyme, and is responsible for converting the male hormone testosterone into dihydrotestosterone. DHT is a hormone that can damage hair follicles and lead to hair loss in men who are genetically sensitive to it.
As finasteride prevents the action of type II 5-alpha reductase it prevents the formation of DHT. This decreases the amount of DHT both in the blood and the scalp and can lead to reversal of the balding process.
The drug is taken by mouth to increase hair growth and prevent further hair loss in men with male pattern baldness. It may take three to six months of treatment before you notice a decrease in hair loss or increase in hair density. Continued use of this drug is recommended to obtain the maximum benefit. If you stop taking it you are likely to lose any hair you have gained within 9 to 12 months.
Why is this drug prescribed?
- Male pattern hair loss ;
Finasteride is prescribed to help shrink an enlarged prostate.
The prostate, a chestnut-shaped gland present in males, produces a liquid that forms part of the semen. This gland completely encloses the upper part of the urethra, the tube through which urine flows out of the bladder. Many men over age 50 suffer from a benign enlargement of the prostate. The enlarged gland squeezes the urethra, obstructing the normal flow of urine. Resulting problems may include difficulty in starting urination, weak flow of urine, and the need to urinate urgently or frequently. Sometimes surgical removal of the prostate is necessary.
By shrinking the enlarged prostate, Finasteride may alleviate the various associated urinary problems, making surgery unnecessary.
Some doctors are also prescribing Finasteride for baldness and as a preventive measure against prostate cancer.
- impotence;
- decreased sex drive;
- reduced volume of ejaculation;
- pain in the testicles;
- impotence;
- hypersensitivity reactions such as rash itching hives or swelling of the lips and face;
- ejaculation disorders;
- decreased sex drive;
- breast tenderness/swelling;
- decreased amount of semen per ejaculation;
ADULTS
The recommended dosage, for men only, is one 5-mg tablet per day.
