Propecia contains finasteride as the active ingredient, which is in the form of a synthetic 4-azasteroid compound. It functions as a specific inhibitor of the steroid Type II 5α-reductase enzyme. The drug is formulated as a film-coated tablet for oral administration, with each tablet containing 1 mg of finasteride. Key inactive ingredients include hypromellose, iron oxide red and yellow, lactose monohydrate, and titanium dioxide.
How should I use this medication?
Take this medication by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You can take this medication with or without food. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medication more often than directed. Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once. NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
Where should I keep my medication?
Keep out of the reach of children. Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from moisture. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible: -Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat -Breast tissue changes, new lumps, redness, pain, or discharge from the nipple Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome): -Breast pain or tenderness -Change in sex drive or performance
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions: -Liver disease -An unusual or allergic reaction to finasteride, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives -Pregnant or trying to get pregnant -Breast-feeding
What may interact with this medication?
-Saw palmetto or other dietary supplements
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. It may take at least three months of daily use of this medication before you notice an improvement in your hair loss. You must continue to take this medication to maintain the results. If you stop taking this medication, the effect will be reversed within 12 months. This medication can cause serious birth defects. If you are pregnant or may get pregnant, do not handle broken or crushed tablets of this medication. If you are pregnant and come in contact with broken or crushed tablets, contact your care team. Exposure to whole tablets is not expected to cause harm as long as they are not swallowed. Do not donate blood while you are taking this medication. Donated blood may contain enough of this medication to cause birth defects in someone who is pregnant. Ask your care team when it is safe to donate blood after you stop taking this medication. This medication can interfere with PSA blood tests for prostate cancer. If you are scheduled to have a blood test for prostate cancer, tell your care team that you are taking this medication. Talk to your care team about your risk of cancer. You may be more at risk for certain types of cancer if you take this medication.
Source: This information is sourced from Elsevier Inc.
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Prescription medications affect individuals differently, and what works for one person may not work for another. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist, or other qualified healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed applies to your personal circumstances. Only a licensed healthcare provider can advise you on what is safe and effective for you.
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