Propecia (finasteride)

I. Definition:

Propecia is a new (1998) medication used to treat androgenic alopecia (pattern baldness) in men.   Propecia decreases serum and scalp DHT (male hormone) levels.  Lowering DHT appears to inhibit miniaturization of affected hair follicles and helps to restore miniaturized hair follicles to regrow visible hair.  Propecia regrows visible hair that appears natural. At this time Propecia should not be used in women.  It is currently being studied in post menopausal women.

II. Side Effects: (<2% of men)

• Erectile dysfunction - 1.8%
• Decreased ejaculate volume - 1.2%
• Decreased sex drive - 1.8%

III. Precautions:

• Should not be used in women who are pregnant
• Pregnant women should not handle crushed or broken tablets
• Caution should be used in patients with liver function abnormalities
• Stopping treatment leads to a gradual loss of benefits

IV. Alternatives:

• Many men and women have seen tremendous success with natural alternatives such as Provillus, an effective non-prescription hair loss treatment.

V. Effectiveness: (men 18 to 41 with mild to moderate hair loss on the top of the scalp)

• 83% men who used it for 2 years maintained or increased hair counts
• 66% men who used it for 2 years had visible hair growth

VI. Treatment:

• Dose is 1 mg pill per day by mouth.
• Need to use for 3 months to see any improvement
• If no improvement in 1 year, Propecia is not likely to help

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