How To Avoid Side Effects With Propecia

Propecia (brand name of finasteride) is a prescription oral medication given to men to treat male pattern baldness. The Mayo Clinic points out that along with this medications intended effects--which is to prevent further hair loss and encourage new hair growth--some unwanted side effects may occur. Of specific concern to men are side effects related to sexual performance, such as decreased sexual desire, impotence and reduced amount of ejaculate. Although clinical findings reported by Merck & Co. prior to Propecia's approval by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration indicate than less than 2 percent of male study participants experienced these particular adverse reactions, they warrant mention, as do others cited by the Mayo Clinic, such as breast tenderness/enlargement, stomach pain, diarrhea, headache and dizziness.

Step 1

Inform your doctor if you've experienced an allergic or abnormal reaction to Propecia or to any other medications in the past. Also report allergies to food, animals and other substances. The risk of side effects with Propecia increase if you're taking St. John's Wort. Your doctor may wish to adjust your medication or change the way these two drugs are taken, if both are used.

Step 2

Follow your doctor's instructions and take only the amount of Propecia prescribed. The Mayo Clinic states this is typically 1 milligram per day. Taking more Propecia than advised can increase your risk of side effects; don't adjust the dosage unless your doctor tells you to. The manufacturer states that Propecia can be taken with or without food.

Step 3

Don't permit pregnant women or those trying to conceive to handle Propecia, especially if the medication is crushed or broken. Merck & Co. cautions that the drug may be absorbed through the skin and cause birth defects in male fetuses. (Propecia is not approved for use in women.)

Step 4

Report side effects to your doctor. Merck & Co. stresses the importance of reporting any changes in the breasts, such as lumps, discharge and pain. The Mayo Clinic points out that some side effects will resolve as you adjust to treatment; however, it's best to get your health care provider's advice if you experience an adverse reaction to Propecia.

Tips and Warnings

Propecia doesn't yield immediate results; according to the Mayo Clinic, it takes around three months before you notice a reduction in hair loss or new hair growth. Propecia should be stored in a closed container at room temperature, between 59 and 86 degrees F., away from moisture. Enlarged and/or tender breasts are reported more frequently with a 5 milligram dosage of oral finasteride, says the Mayo Clinic.
According to a July 1, 2003 report in the American Family Physician, Propecia is not used for men with advanced hair loss; a hair piece or surgical hair transplantation may be recommended instead.