The chemical name of Propecia is finasteride. Apart from propecia there are other brands under which this drug is sold. Another trade name is Proscar. Finasteride belongs to the category of medications known as synthetic antiandrogen.
Propecia is used to treat male pattern hair loss especially on the vertex and anterior mid- scalp area. Thinning of the hair on the scalp is a usual disturbing problem among men. The thinning often results in turning bald. This medication acts by preventing the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. It is prescribed only for men. Propecia is prevented from usage among women.
As mentioned earlier this medication should not be taken by women or children. Any kind of exposure to this tablet should also be avoided. This is because this drug can enter the body through the skin and can cause fatal effects. This is more applicable to pregnant women as the exposure to this medicine will prove to be dangerous to the baby. If the patient using Propecia is found allergic to finasteride or any other ingredients of the medication, it is always advised to stop using it.
Side effects can occur while using Propecia. The commonly noticed side effects that are believed to be serious are allergic reactions like hives; breathing trouble; swelling of lips, face, tongue and throat. Special care needs to be given if breast lumps, pain, nipple discharge or breast changes are noticed. There are more side effects. Some of them are less serious. They include feeling like you might pass out; swelling in your hands or feet; pain in the testicles; impotence, loss of interest in sex, or trouble having an orgasm; abnormal ejaculation; swelling or tenderness in your breasts; dizziness, weakness; headache; runny nose; or skin rash. Many of the side effects will be curable if noticed and treated immediately.
It is better to take Propecia under the strict guidance of a doctor. The dosage has to be determined by the doctor. The medication has to be taken daily along with a full glass of water either with food or without. It has to be taken daily. If stopped in between the hair loss will return to as in the beginning and may sometimes become worse. To get better results it is advised to take the medicine at the same time every day.