1. Put the Brakes on Hair Loss
Propecia (or finasteride) can stop and even reverse mild to moderate hair loss in men. Studies have shown nearly 80 percent of men using Propecia have found some success in hindering their progressive balding on the top of their head and mid-scalp area.
2. Early Starts Get Better Results
Unfortunately there is no complete male baldness cure, and even Propecia has its limits. While it can improve some types of baldness, Propecia doesn't restore balding in the front portion of the scalp. Only hair transplants are effective in this area. It's also important to start the medication as soon as hair loss starts. Studies show Propecia is much less effective in older men and men who've started balding more than 5 years ago. There are also some medical conditions that may prohibit your ability to take Propecia, including an allergy to Avodart, liver disease, prostate cancer or bladder and urethra problems.
3. Dose With Care
You need a Propecia prescription from your physician, and you should follow it exactly as advised. If you stop taking Propecia, even after you notice results, your progress stops and baldness returns. Take it once daily, with a full glass of water, and with or without food. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can, but don't take two doses at once. You may see early results in 3 months, but for most men it takes longer. If you've taken Propecia for 12 months with no results, it may not work for you.
4. Watch for Side Effects
Propecia is a low side-effect drug; however, if you notice changes to your breasts, such as lumps, pain or nipple discharge, contact your physician. Although rare, you could have symptoms of male breast cancer. Mild side effects include testicular pain, impotence, decreased sex drive, abnormal ejaculation, dizziness, headache, swelling in your feet and hands and skin rash.
5. Women Should Exercise Caution
Propecia is only for men, and women should never even handle the drug, let alone take it. Women who are pregnant or nursing should use extreme caution around Propecia, as it can cause birth defects. It's absorbed through the skin, so if you touch it accidentally, wash your hands with soap and water as soon as possible. Fortunately Propecia tablets come with a protective coating, which helps minimize risk.
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