Propecia
What is Propecia?
Proprecia is for use by men only, to treat male pattern hair loss by increasing hair growth on the scalp and preventing further hair loss.
Male pattern hair loss (also known as androgenetic alopecia) is a common condition in which men experience thinning of the hair on the scalp. This often results in a receding hair line and/or balding on the top of the head. These changes typically start to occur in some men in their 20s and become more common with age.
Once hair loss has occurred over a long period of time, the hair may be permanently lost. Male pattern hair loss is thought to be caused by a combination of family history (heredity) and production of a particular male hormone, called dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
Men with male pattern hair loss have more DHT in the balding part of their scalp than in other parts, resulting in increased hair loss. How Does Propecia Work? Propecia specifically lowers the levels of DHT in the scalp, thus helping to reverse the balding process. Propecia does not affect hair on other parts of the body.
Men with mild to moderate, but not complete, hair loss can expect to benefit from the use of Propecia. There should be no need to change your usual hair care routine (for example, shampooing or haircuts) because you are taking Propecia.
How long will I have to take Propecia for?
Male pattern hair loss or baldness is a condition that develops over a long period of time. Because it takes time for new hair to grow, you will not see immediate results. In general, daily use for 3 months or more may be necessary before you notice increased hair growth or prevention of further loss. Continue taking Propecia for as long as your doctor prescribes.
Propecia Side Effects
Propecia helps most men with male pattern baldness or hair loss, but it may have unwanted side effects in a few men. All medicines can have side effects. Sometimes they are serious, most of the time they are not. You may need medical treatment if you get some of the side effects.
Tell your doctor if you notice any of the following symptoms and they worry you. These may be symptoms of a serious allergic reaction which may cause difficulty in swallowing or breathing. You may need urgent medical attention.
- difficulty in achieving an erection
- less desire for sex
- decreased amount of semen released during sex (this decrease does not appear to interfere with normal sexual function)
- breast swelling and/or tenderness
- skin rash, itchiness, hives or nettle rash (pinkish, itchy swellings on the skin)
- testicle pain
- swelling of the lips or face
