Propecia

What is Propecia?

Propecia is a drug meant to convert testosterone into dihydrotestosterone which is responsible for the benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) development. This drug is effective for treating BPH in men with an enlarged prostate.

What is the most important information I should know about Propecia?

In case you had ever had an allergy to Propecia or similar drugs like dutasteride (Avodart), you should consult with your doctor beforehand. Propecia isn’t recommended for use in women and children. As this medication can be absorbed through the skin, neither women nor children should take the Propecia pills.

Keep in mind that Propecia should never be used by pregnant women, as it may lead to birth defects. If a woman occasionally comes into contact with a crushed or broken tablet, she has to wash the affected area with soap.

In case you detected such symptoms as nipple discharge, breast lumps and pain, which can be the signs of breast cancer in men, you should seek immediate medical attention.

Visit your doctor before starting treatment with Propecia, if you have one of the following conditions: prostate cancer, problems with urination, structure in the urethra, liver disease, some kind of bladder muscle disorder and abnormal liver enzyme tests.

Try not to get up too fast if you were in a lying or sitting position, as in that case you may experience dizziness. Better get up slowly and gradually in order to prevent a fall.

Remember that Propecia may result in an allergic reaction like difficulty breathing, hives and swelling of the face, tongue, throat or lips. You should seek immediate medical assistance in case you detect such breast changes as pain, breast lumps or nipple discharge, as it may be the evidence of male breast cancer.

You should also be aware of less serious side effects, such as decreased sex drive, difficulty achieving orgasm, feeling as if you passed out, pain in testicles, weakness, dizziness, headache, skin rash, runny nose, swelling in the feet or hands, swelling or tenderness in the breast or abnormal ejaculation.

How should I take Propecia?

Take Propecia with a glass of water. The medication can be used with or without food.

You should pass special blood tests during treatment in order to make sure that the drug improves your health condition. Your prostate specific antigen will be checked as well to prevent the development of prostate cancer.

Follow your course of treatment with Propecia and do not stop using the drug suddenly. Take Propecia on a regular basis.

Store Propecia away from light, moisture and heat. Keep the medication at room temperature, in a tightly closed container.

What happens if I miss a dose?

In case you missed a dose of Propecia, you should use it asap. If it is almost time for the next one, better skip the missed dose and after this return to your standard dosage schedule. Never take an additional dose to catch up.

What happens if I overdose?

Propecia overdose is unlikely to provoke serious life-threatening side effects, but if it is suspected, you should seek medical help right away.