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Propecia (finasteride) is a medication used to treat male pattern baldness. It is a prescription drug that is taken orally. Propecia is the brand name for finasteride and is available in tablet form. The generic name for Propecia is finasteride.

Finasteride was originally developed for the treatment of enlarged prostate glands. However, it was found to be more effective in treating male pattern baldness. Propecia is a lower-dose form of Proscar, which is used to treat enlarged prostate glands.

Propecia is thought to work by decreasing the amount of a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the scalp. DHT is thought to play a role in balding. Propecia is for use by men only and should not be used by women or children.

Propecia may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important Information

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

You should not take Propecia if you are allergic to finasteride, or if you have already been taking Proscar (finasteride 5 mg).

To make sure Propecia is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

• liver disease, or abnormal liver function tests;
• prostate cancer;
• a bladder muscle disorder;
• stricture of your urethra;
• if you are unable to urinate.

Finasteride can be absorbed through the skin, and women or children should not be permitted to handle Propecia tablets.

Propecia tablets are coated and will prevent contact with the active ingredient during normal handling, provided that the tablets have not been broken or crushed.

If a woman who is pregnant or who may become pregnant comes into contact with the active ingredient in Propecia, a doctor should be consulted.

Propecia is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

How should I take Propecia?

Take Propecia exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended.

Propecia can be taken with or without food. Take the medicine at the same time each day.

Propecia can only be used by men. Women and children should not take Propecia.

Propecia tablets are coated and will prevent contact with the active ingredient during normal handling, provided that the tablets have not been broken or crushed.

If a woman who is pregnant or who may become pregnant comes into contact with the active ingredient in Propecia, a doctor should be consulted.

Propecia should never be taken by a woman or a child. Propecia tablets are for oral use only.

Store Propecia at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. An overdose of Propecia is not expected to produce life-threatening symptoms.

What should I avoid while taking Propecia?

Propecia can be absorbed through the skin, and women or children should not be permitted to handle Propecia tablets.

Avoid handling the crushed or broken tablets of Propecia. If contact does occur, wash immediately with soap and water.

Propecia side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you notice any breast lumps, pain, nipple discharge, or other breast changes. These may be signs of male breast cancer.

Common Propecia side effects may include:

• decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm;
• abnormal ejaculation;
• swelling in your hands or feet;
• tenderness in your breasts;
• drowsiness, weakness;
• feeling like you might pass out;
• headache, runny nose; or
• skin rash.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Propecia?

Taking Propecia may increase your risk of developing prostate cancer. Your doctor will perform tests to make sure you do not have other conditions that would prevent you from safely using finasteride.

Other drugs may interact with finasteride, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.