What is
Male Pattern Hair Loss?
Male pattern
hair loss is a common condition in which men experience thinning of the hair on
the scalp. Often, this results in a receding hairline and/or balding on the top
of the head. These changes typically begin gradually in men in their 20s.
Doctors believe male pattern hair loss is due to heredity and is dependent on
hormonal effects especially DHT (Dihydrotestosterone) which is an important
developmental hormone in a man’s life.
What
causes Male Pattern Hair Loss?
Scientists
have not been able to define the causes of hair loss; however, researchers have
found that men with male pattern hair loss have increased levels of DHT in the
balding area of their scalps. Hair in humans normally follows a cycle of growth,
falling out, and new growth. Increased levels of DHT are believed to contribute
to the shortening of the growth phase, and a shortening of the time it takes for
the hair to fall out. This results in the thinning of hair.
How does
Propecia work?
The active
ingredient in Propecia (Finasteride) blocks the formation of DHT and in this way
appears to interrupt a key factor in the development of inherited male pattern
hair loss. Propecia has been proven to effectively lower the DHT levels in the
scalp.
Most
important, Propecia helps grow hair, not just “peach fuzz” and it's as
convenient to take as a vitamin: one pill a day.
When can I
start to see results?
Propecia
begins lowering the levels of DHT since day 1.
After 3 months
of use, most men notice a slowing of their hair loss.
At 6 months
most patients begin to see an increase in the amount of hair as they continue to
use Propecia daily.
After 24
months studies determined that, 83% of men maintained their hair (based on hair
count). Further 66% of men experienced re-growth of hair.
Consistent
daily use is essential for success. If you stop treatment, any hair you have
gained will generally be lost within 12 months.
Who
should not use Propecia?
Propecia is
for the treatment of male pattern hair loss in MEN ONLY. Further, women
who are or may potentially be pregnant must not use Propecia and should not
handle crushed or broken tablets of Propecia because the active ingredient may
cause abnormalities of a male baby's sex organs. Propecia tablets are coated
and will prevent contact with the active ingredient during normal
handling.
The use of
Propecia is contraindicated for anyone who is allergic to any of the ingredients
in Propecia.
What
should I be aware of?
You should
have a complete medical exam before taking Propecia.
Propecia can
affect a blood test called PSA (Prostate – Specific Antigen) for the screening
of prostate cancer. If you have a PSA test done, you should tell your doctor
that you are taking Propecia.
It is
advisable that you consult with your primary care physician before taking any
new medication.
People who
suffer from liver function abnormalities should be cautious when using Propecia
given that Finasteride is metabolized extensively in the liver.
What are
the possible side effects?
Like all
medications, Propecia can cause some side effects. In clinical studies, side
effects from Propecia were uncommon and did not affect most men. A very small
number of men experienced certain sexual side effects, such as less desire for
sex; difficulty in achieving an erection; and a decrease in the amount of semen.
Each of these side effects occurred in less than 2% of men. These went away in
all men who discontinued their use of the medication.
Talk to your
doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you.
What is
the recommended dose?
The
recommended dosage is 1 mg once a day. Propecia won't work any faster or better
if you take more than one tablet a day.
Propecia may
be administered with or without meals.
In general,
daily use for three months or more is necessary before benefit is
observed
Where do
I keep it?
Store at controlled temperature 59° to 86° F (15° to 30°
C). Keep container closed and protect from moisture
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