Propecia, with the active ingredient finasteride, is a prescription medication specifically developed to treat male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) in men. It is the first and only FDA-approved pill that effectively treats hair loss on the vertex (top of the head) and anterior mid-scalp area. By targeting the root hormonal cause of hair loss, Propecia works to halt the progression of hair thinning and, in many cases, stimulates regrowth. This treatment represents a significant advancement in dermatological therapy, offering a scientifically-backed, non-surgical option for men seeking to manage this common condition.

Features

• Active Ingredient: Finasteride 1 mg.
• Drug Class: 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor, Type II.
• Presentation: Film-coated, pentagonal-shaped tablets.
• Administration: Oral, once-daily.
• Prescription Status: Requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
• Manufactured under strict pharmaceutical quality control standards.

Benefits

• Halts the Progression of Hair Loss: Clinically demonstrated to stop the further miniaturization of hair follicles in the vast majority of men.
• Promotes Hair Regrowth: Significant increases in hair count and visible improvement in hair coverage have been observed in controlled studies.
• Targets the Root Cause: Works systemically to inhibit the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the primary hormonal driver of male pattern baldness.
• Convenient Oral Dosage: A single, small tablet taken daily integrates easily into any routine, unlike topical treatments that can be messy or time-consuming.
• Long-Term Clinical Data: Supported by over a decade of extensive clinical research and real-world use, establishing a well-understood efficacy and safety profile.
• Non-Surgical Solution: Provides a medical alternative to hair transplant surgery for suitable candidates.

Common use

Propecia is indicated for the treatment of male pattern hair loss in men only. It is used to increase hair growth and prevent further hair loss on the scalp. Its efficacy has been proven in men with mild to moderate hair loss, primarily on the vertex and the anterior mid-scalp area. Treatment response can be variable, and it is not effective for treating hair loss at the frontal scalp (receding hairline). It is intended for long-term use; continued use is necessary to sustain benefit. Discontinuation of treatment leads to a reversal of effect within 12 months.

Dosage and direction

The recommended dosage of Propecia is one 1 mg tablet administered orally once daily, with or without food. For ease of remembrance, it is often taken at the same time each day. The tablet should be swallowed whole; it should not be crushed or broken. Clinical studies indicate that a minimum of three months of daily dosing is required before any evidence of hair growth is observed. Further growth and prevention of continued loss are typically observed through 6 to 12 months of continued therapy. Dosage adjustment is not necessary based on age or renal impairment, though it is not recommended for use in pediatric patients.

Precautions

• Propecia is for use by adult men only. It must not be handled by women who are or may potentially be pregnant due to the risk of absorption and potential teratogenic effects on a male fetus.
• Patients with liver function impairment should be monitored, as finasteride is metabolized extensively in the liver.
• Prior to initiating treatment, a proper diagnosis should be established to confirm male pattern hair loss.
• Patients should be informed that they may need to use Propecia for prolonged periods (12 months or more) to assess its full benefit.
• Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider is advised to monitor progress and discuss any concerns.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to finasteride or any other component of the formulation.
• Use in women, particularly women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant.
• Use in pediatric patients.

Possible side effects

Like all medications, Propecia can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. In clinical trials, side effects were uncommon and generally resolved upon continued treatment or discontinuation.

• Sexual Side Effects: A small percentage of men (< 4%) may experience one or more of the following: decreased libido, difficulty in achieving an erection (erectile dysfunction), and a decrease in the amount of semen. These side effects were reversible in most men who discontinued therapy and in many who continued treatment.
• Other: Less commonly reported side effects include breast tenderness and enlargement, rash, itching, hives, and swelling of the lips and face.
• Post-Marketing Reports: There have been post-marketing reports of persistent sexual dysfunction (e.g., erectile dysfunction, diminished libido, orgasm disorders) that continued after discontinuation of the drug, as well as male infertility and/or poor semen quality. These reports are rare.

Drug interaction

Formal drug interaction studies have not been performed with Propecia 1 mg. However, caution is advised when used concomitantly with drugs that are potent inhibitors of the CYP3A4 enzyme system (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, ritonavir). No clinically significant interactions have been observed with antipyrine, digoxin, propranolol, theophylline, or warfarin. The concomitant use of Propecia with other 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors (e.g., dutasteride) is not recommended.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be skipped, and the next dose should be taken at the usual time the following day. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Maintaining a consistent daily schedule is important for optimal efficacy.

Overdose

In clinical studies, doses of finasteride up to 400 mg per day have been administered without significant adverse effects. Single doses of up to 80 mg in healthy volunteers have been given without observed clinical effects. There is no specific antidote for finasteride overdose. In case of suspected overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment should be instituted as appropriate.

Storage

Store Propecia tablets at room temperature, between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F). Keep the medication in its original blister pack or container to protect it from light and moisture. Keep all medications out of the reach of children and pets. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Always read the medication guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking finasteride and each time you get a refill. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor.

Reviews

• “As a dermatologist, I have prescribed Propecia for over 15 years. For the right patient, it is the cornerstone of medical management for androgenetic alopecia. The key is setting realistic expectations—it’s about stabilization first, regrowth second. The vast majority of my patients maintain their hair, which they consider a success.” – Dr. Evan R., MD, Dermatology
• “I started noticing significant thinning at 28. After a year on Propecia, the shedding completely stopped. It’s been three years now, and I’ve maintained what I had and even seen some regrowth on my crown. The convenience of a pill is a major plus.” – Mark T., Patient
• “The clinical data for finasteride 1 mg is robust and undeniable. Its mechanism of action is precisely targeted, making it a rational and effective first-line pharmacotherapy for this condition. Monitoring patients for the first 6-12 months is crucial to assess individual response.” – Clinical Pharmacologist Review
• “I experienced some initial side effects regarding libido, which was concerning. However, after discussing it with my doctor, we decided to continue, and they subsided after about two months. I’m glad I persisted, as the treatment has been effective for me.” – Anonymous Patient
• “From a pharmacological standpoint, Propecia’s once-daily dosing and high tolerance profile make it an exceptionally compliant-friendly treatment. Its long-term efficacy data is what truly sets it apart from over-the-counter options.” – Pharmacy Times Journal