Also known as Finasteride and marketed under product names like Proscar, Fincar, Finpecia, Finax, Finast, Finara and Prosteride, it is an anti-androgen which suppresses the 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone.
Administered in low doses initially to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or enlarged prostate and then prostate cancer in higher doses, Propecia was eventually used in many countries for treatment of male-pattern baldness.
This came about after the sponsors for the drug discovered
that 1 mg of finasteride caused hair growth in patients suffering male pattern hair loss.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved finasteride for treatment of male pattern hair loss in December 22, 1997.
Health experts then held a Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial (PCPT) where it was shown that a dose of 5mg of finasteride per day, commonly prescribed for BPH, though at a higher dosage than the 1 mg used for hair loss--reduced by 25 percent the likelihood for trial participants to develop prostate cancer than those taking a placebo.
But it was also shown that the cancers which developed in men taking finasteride may be further aggravated.
The cause is unknown though researchers continue to monitor trial results. At lower doses the effects are inconclusive.
Product names
The drug which is marketed under trade names Propecia and Proscar are both products of Merck & Co.---Propecia is marketed for treatment of male pattern baldness while the latter is for BPH. About 1 mg of finasteride is found in Propecia with 5 mg found in Proscar.
The company Cipla is also manufacturing finasteride under the trade name Fincar and Finpecia, while the company Dr. Reddy sell these under the trade names Finax and Finast.
Ranbaxy sells Propecia under trade name Finara while Aleppo Pharmaceutical sells it under trade name Prosteride.
On use as hair loss treatment drug
PROPECIA was used in experiments on men aged 18 to 41 suffering from mild to moderate hair loss at the top and middle front of their heads.
There is inadequate evidence to prove that Propecia works for men with receding hairlines at the temples. It is only used for men with male pattern hair loss and is strictly prohibited for women and children.
Health warnings
PROPECIA or Finasteride is especially prohibited for pregnant women or those likely to become pregnant since the drug is under the FDA's pregnancy category X.
This means the drug is known to cause birth defects on unborn babies particularly on their sexual organs. Pregnant women or expectant women are strongly advised not to handle crushed or broken Finasteride tablets since the medication or the active ingredient can be absorbed through the skin.
While it is advised to avoid exposure as much as possible, the makers of Propecia or Finasteride tablets assure that
it is not expected to be harmful so long as the tablets are not swallowed.
They explain that the tablets are coated and prevents contact if handled properly. Once contact is made however, consult a doctor immediately if only to be on the safe side.
It has yet to be established whether Finasteride passes into breast milk. Since it is prohibited for women it should not be used when breast-feeding a baby.
Oral sex is discouraged between married couples or male-female partners if the male is ingesting finasteride because the drug is absorbed into the semen.
Again the prohibition especially applies if the woman is pregnant or about to get pregnant. Since Finasteride can reportedly hide steroid abuse many professional sports groups banned the drug for this reason.
Things to consider when taking Propecia
As is the case consult with your doctor and/or health care provider first before deciding to use the drug to treat hair loss.
Among the factors to consider is determining if you have liver disease. If you do, either you may be unable to take Propecia or the doctor may advise a lower dose or special monitoring during treatment.
Take Propecia under strict directions by your doctor. Consult with a pharmacist, nurse or doctor to explain these to you for clarification.
Each dose of Propecia should be taken with a full glass of water. The drug can be taken with or without food and it is important to take this regularly for maximum benefit.
Your doctor should perform blood tests or other forms of monitoring during treatment with Propecia. One of these tests is called PSA or prostate-specific antigen which can help detect prostate cancer.
Propecia may reduce the amount of PSA measured in the blood. Store the drug at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
In case you miss a dose take one as soon as you remember but if it's almost time for the next dose, take the scheduled dosage instead.
Don't take an additional dose unless directed. If one has overdosed seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms of a Propecia overdose are unknown.
As of now there are no restrictions on food, drink or activities while undergoing treatment with Propecia unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Those using Propecia may not see the benefits of increased hair growth at least until after three months. If there is no progress after one year, further treatments cannot pose any more benefits.
According to its makers, Propecia can only work within the long term and discontinuing use may deprive patients of its benefits within one year after withdrawal.
Possible side-effects
AMONG the possible side effects are allergic reactions like difficulty in breathing, closing of throat, swelling of the lips, tongue or face and hives.
Other less serious effects are said to go away upon discontinued use. Among these are decreased libido or sex drive, decreased semen, impotence, breast tenderness or enlargement.
Doctors have yet to verify whether there is danger in combining use of Propecia with other medications. As usual, patients are advised to talk with doctors before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.
Summary
Like another hair loss treatment product dubbed Rogaine or Minoxidil, Propecia has its uses in treating male pattern baldness.
But as in the case of every other drug, doctor's advice is of paramount importance.
