Propecia
Propecia (Finasteride) is used to treat male pattern hair loss.
How to take this medication
Follow the directions for using Propecia® provided by your doctor. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist any questions that you may have about this medicine. This medicine may be taken once daily on an empty stomach. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) in a tightly-closed container, away from moisture. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE and you remember the same day, take it as soon as possible. If you do not remember until the next day, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Side Effects
A SIDE EFFECT that may occur while taking Propecia® is a change in sexual function. If it continues or is bothersome, check with your doctor. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you experience the following side effects or symptoms of toxicity: skin rash or swelling of lips. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.
Precautions
IT MAY TAKE SEVERAL MONTHS for this medicine to work. Do not stop taking this medicine without checking with your doctor. Stopping this medicine will result in a return within 12 months to the same amount of baldness as when you started. KEEP ALL DOCTOR AND LABORATORY APPOINTMENTS while you are taking this medicine. BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. ANY WOMAN WHO IS PREGNANT OR WHO MAY BECOME PREGNANT SHOULD NOT HANDLE crushed or broken tablets of this medicine. If a woman who is pregnant comes in contact with crushed or broken tablets of this medicine, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor of all nonprescription and prescription medication you may use, especially any nitrate medications (e.g., nitroglycerin, isosorbide dinitrate), nitroprusside (any “nitric oxide donor” medicines), cimetidine, erythromycin, azole antifungals (e.g., itraconazole, ketoconazole), mibefradil, rifamycins (e.g., rifampin) or high blood pressure medicines.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, do not double the next dose. Instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule.
Storage
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.