Propecia (finasteride) is the only prescription medicine in
the UK for male pattern baldness. It is a 5 alpha reductase inhibitor. It is a tan
octagonal tablet available in just one strength - 1mg. It works by blocking the enzyme,
Type II 5 alpha-reductase, and in doing so it reduces the level of the hormone in the
scalp which shortens the hair growth cycle and allows hairs to revert to a normal growth
cycle. This can result in stopping further hair loss and increasing new hair growth in
men with male pattern baldness.
Continuous use once a day for 3–6 months is required before benefit is seen, and effects are
reversed 6–12 months after treatment is discontinued so continuous use is recommended to sustain
benefit.
Trials conducted on thousands of men have shown that after 2 years of use two thirds of men
showed increased hair growth. 4 out of 5 of men in the trial showed no further hair loss.
When taken at the recommended dose, the possible side effects of propecia are usually mild
and generally have not caused the men to stop taking the medicine.
Possible side effects include testicular pain , decreased libido, erectile dysfunction,
decreased volume of ejaculate, breast tenderness and enlargement; rashes, itching and swelling
of the lips and face.
Propecia should only be taken if prescribed by a registered doctor. It is only for men and is
not for use in children and adolescents.
'Propecia' should not be taken by men who are taking proscar (finasteride 5 mg) or any other
5α-reductase inhibitor for benign prostatic hyperplasia or any other condition.
The recommended dose of propecia is 1mg per day.
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