Propecia 1mg tablets are a prescription medication used to treat male pattern hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia. Each tablet contains 1mg of finasteride, an active ingredient that works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which reduces the levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the scalp. DHT is a hormone linked to hair follicle shrinkage and hair loss. By lowering DHT levels, Propecia helps to slow down hair loss, promote hair regrowth, and improve overall hair density. For optimal results, Propecia should be taken daily, and consistent use is necessary to maintain hair growth benefits.
Dr Sarah Thornton MbChB, Coaching Academy diploma with distinction
GP, Medical coach
What is Propecia 1mg?
Propecia 1mg is a daily tablet designed to combat hair loss and male pattern baldness in adult males over 18. This branded medication contains the active ingredient finasteride, which inhibits a hormone responsible for hair loss. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) causes hair follicles to shrink and stop producing hair. Propecia helps restore these follicles to their normal size, enabling hair growth. Manufactured by Merck, Propecia belongs to the group of drugs known as 5-alpha reductase inhibitors and has been available since 1997.
What is the active ingredient in Propecia 1mg?
The active ingredient in Propecia 1mg is finasteride 1mg.
What is Propecia 1mg used for?
Propecia contains the active ingredient finasteride, which is part of a class of medications known as Type II 5-alpha reductase inhibitors. Propecia is used to treat male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia), promoting hair growth on the scalp and preventing further hair loss in men. It is most effective for men experiencing mild to moderate hair loss, rather than complete baldness.
How does Propecia 1mg work?
Propecia, containing the active ingredient finasteride, is specifically designed to treat male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia). It operates through a precise mechanism targeting the hormonal cause of hair loss.
1. Inhibition of 5-Alpha Reductase
Finasteride belongs to a class of drugs known as 5-alpha reductase inhibitors. The enzyme 5-alpha reductase converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a potent androgen hormone. Elevated levels of DHT in the scalp contribute to the miniaturization of hair follicles, leading to shorter hair growth cycles and thinning hair. Finasteride inhibits the activity of the Type II 5-alpha reductase enzyme, effectively reducing the production of DHT.
2. Reduction of DHT Levels
By inhibiting 5-alpha reductase, Propecia significantly lowers DHT levels in the scalp. Clinical studies have shown that Propecia can reduce scalp DHT levels by up to 60%. This decrease in DHT helps to halt the miniaturization process of hair follicles, which is a key factor in male pattern baldness.
3. Restoration of Hair Follicle Function
Lower DHT levels allow hair follicles to return to their natural size and function. This reversal of follicle miniaturization means that hair can grow thicker and longer. As a result, Propecia helps to prolong the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle, leading to more robust and sustained hair growth.
4. Prevention of Further Hair Loss
Consistent use of Propecia not only promotes hair regrowth but also helps to prevent further hair loss. By maintaining lower levels of DHT, Propecia provides a protective effect on hair follicles, reducing the likelihood of further thinning and hair loss progression.
5. Visible Results Over Time
While results can vary, many men begin to notice improvements in hair density and reduction in hair loss within three to six months of daily use. Optimal results are typically seen after one year of continuous use. It's important to note that Propecia needs to be taken regularly to maintain its benefits; discontinuing treatment will result in a gradual return of DHT levels and potential hair loss recurrence.
Summary
Propecia works by targeting the hormonal root cause of male pattern hair loss through the inhibition of 5-alpha reductase. This reduces DHT levels in the scalp, restoring hair follicle function, promoting hair regrowth, and preventing further hair loss. With regular use, Propecia offers a clinically proven solution to manage and reverse the effects of androgenetic alopecia in men.
How to take Propecia 1mg tablets?
Always take this medication exactly as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist. If you are unsure about the instructions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Dosage: The recommended dose is one tablet daily. You can take the tablet with or without food.
If You Take More Propecia Than You Should:
If you accidentally take too many tablets, contact your doctor immediately. Taking more than the prescribed dose will not make Propecia work faster or better.
If You Forget to Take Propecia:
Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose. Simply continue with your next scheduled dose.
If You Stop Taking Propecia:
It may take 3 to 6 months to see the full effect. It is important to continue taking Propecia as directed by your doctor. If you stop taking Propecia, you are likely to lose any hair you have regained within 9 to 12 months.
If you have any further questions about using this medication, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Who should not take Propecia 1mg tablets?
Do Not Take Propecia If:
You Are a Woman: This medication is intended for men. Clinical trials have shown that Propecia does not work in women with hair loss.
You Are Allergic to Finasteride: Do not take Propecia if you are hypersensitive to finasteride or any other ingredients in this medication. Please check the product information leaflet below.
You Are Already Taking Finasteride or Dutasteride: If you are using these medications for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), do not take Propecia.
If any of these conditions apply to you, do not take Propecia. If you are unsure, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Warnings and Precautions
Before Taking Propecia, Talk to Your Doctor or Pharmacist If:
You Are Having a PSA Test: Propecia can affect the results of the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test for prostate cancer.
Effects on Fertility
Infertility has been reported in men who took finasteride long-term and had other risk factors for fertility issues. Improvement or normalization of seminal quality has been noted after discontinuing finasteride. Long-term clinical studies on the effects of finasteride on male fertility have not been conducted.
Breast CancerMood Alterations and Depression
Mood changes, including depressed mood, depression, and less frequently, suicidal thoughts, have been reported in patients taking Propecia. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
If you have any further questions about the use of this medication, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
What are the side effects with Propecia 1mg tablets?
Like all medicines, Propecia can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Some side effects may subside with continued treatment or disappear once treatment is stopped.
Stop taking Propecia and consult your doctor immediately if you experience:
Allergic Reaction Symptoms: Swelling of the lips, face, tongue, and throat; difficulty swallowing; hives (lumps under the skin); and breathing difficulties.
Depression: Severe feelings of sadness and unworthiness.
Report any changes in your breast tissue to your doctor promptly, such as lumps, pain, enlargement, or nipple discharge, as these may indicate a serious condition, like breast cancer.Uncommon Side Effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):
Inability to have an erection (impotence)
Decreased sexual desire
Ejaculation problems, such as a decrease in the amount of semen released during sex. This does not appear to affect normal sexual function.
Frequency Unknown:
Breast swelling or tenderness
Palpitations (feeling your heartbeat)
Liver function changes, detectable by a blood test
Testicular pain
Blood in semen
Persistent difficulty having an erection after stopping treatment
Persistent decrease in sex drive after stopping treatment
Persistent problems with ejaculation after stopping treatment
Male infertility and/or poor semen quality
Anxiety
Suicidal thoughts
If you experience any of these side effects, contact your doctor for further medical advice.
If any of these side effects become severe, or if you notice any side effects not mentioned in this leaflet, please inform your doctor or pharmacist. It is helpful to record details such as what occurred, when it started, and how long it lasted.
Will Propecia Affect Hair on Other Parts of Your Body?
Propecia does not impact hair growth on other areas of the body.
Additional Information About Propecia
Finasteride is also used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a type of prostate problem. Data from a clinical trial involving men who took finasteride 5 mg (five times the dose used in Propecia) for 7 years revealed:
Fewer men developed prostate cancer compared to those who did not take finasteride.
Some men taking finasteride had higher tumor grades compared to those who did not take the medication.
The long-term effects of finasteride on such tumors are not fully known.
For more details about the tumor grading system or this clinical trial, please consult your doctor.
Reporting Side Effects
If you experience any side effects, including those not listed in this leaflet, please consult your doctor or pharmacist. You can also report side effects directly through the Yellow Card Scheme by visiting www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or by searching for "MHRA Yellow Card" in the Google Play or Apple App Store. Reporting side effects helps improve the safety information available for this medicine.
Does Propecia 1mg interact with other medicines?
Finasteride is generally well-tolerated and does not commonly interact with other medications. However, being aware of potential drug interactions is important for ensuring the safe and effective use of finasteride. Here’s what you need to know:
Other 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors
Interactions: Using finasteride in combination with other 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, such as dutasteride, is not recommended. Both drugs work through similar mechanisms, and combining them does not provide additional benefits but may increase the risk of side effects.
Alpha-Blockers
Interactions: Finasteride can be used with alpha-blockers, such as doxazosin, terazosin, or prazosin, which are often prescribed for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). There is no significant interaction reported between finasteride and these medications, but they should be monitored as they may have additive effects on the prostate.
Antifungal Medications
Interactions: Certain antifungal medications, like ketoconazole, may affect the metabolism of finasteride. These drugs can increase finasteride levels in the blood by inhibiting the enzyme CYP3A4, which is involved in the metabolism of various drugs. While this interaction is not usually clinically significant, it’s advisable to monitor patients for potential side effects.
HIV Protease Inhibitors
Interactions: Protease inhibitors used in the treatment of HIV, such as ritonavir or indinavir, may also affect finasteride levels. These drugs can alter the metabolism of finasteride by inhibiting CYP3A4. Though interactions are not commonly reported as severe, caution is advised when combining these medications.
Other Medications
Interactions: Finasteride does not commonly interact with other medications, including antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or statins. However, patients should always inform their healthcare provider of all the medications they are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
Considerations
Drug Interactions and Liver Function: Finasteride is metabolized in the liver, so liver function may influence its effectiveness. Patients with liver conditions should use finasteride with caution and under medical supervision.
Monitoring: Regular monitoring may be required when finasteride is used in combination with other medications that affect liver enzyme activity or in patients with significant liver impairment.
Conclusion
While finasteride has a low risk of significant drug interactions, it’s important for patients to inform their healthcare provider about all medications they are taking. This helps in managing potential interactions and ensuring the safe and effective use of finasteride.
Propecia 1mg FAQs
1. What is Propecia 1mg used for?
Propecia 1mg is primarily used to treat male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) in men. It helps to promote hair growth and prevent further hair loss by reducing levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the scalp.
2. How does Propecia 1mg work?
Propecia 1mg contains finasteride, which inhibits the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. This enzyme converts testosterone to DHT, a hormone linked to hair follicle shrinkage and hair loss. By lowering DHT levels, Propecia helps to halt hair loss and promote hair regrowth.
3. How should I take Propecia 1mg?
The recommended dose is one tablet daily. You can take the tablet with or without food. It is important to take Propecia regularly for the best results.
4. How long does it take to see results from Propecia 1mg?
Results can vary, but many men start to notice improvements in hair growth and reduced hair loss after three to six months of continuous use. Optimal results are generally seen after one year of treatment.
5. Are there any side effects associated with Propecia 1mg?
Common side effects may include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and ejaculation problems. Rarely, more serious side effects like breast tenderness or lumps may occur. Consult your doctor if you experience any adverse effects.
6. Can women use Propecia 1mg?
No, Propecia 1mg is intended for use in men only. It should not be used by women, especially during pregnancy or if planning to become pregnant, as it may harm the developing fetus.
7. What should I do if I miss a dose of Propecia 1mg?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one. Simply continue with your next scheduled dose.
8. Can I stop taking Propecia 1mg if I see improvement?
To maintain the benefits of Propecia, it is important to continue taking it as prescribed. Stopping treatment may lead to the loss of newly grown hair within 9 to 12 months.
9. Are there any drug interactions with Propecia 1mg?
Propecia 1mg has minimal interactions with other medications. However, it is important to inform your doctor of all other medications and supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
10. What should I do if I experience an allergic reaction or severe side effects?
If you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as swelling of the lips, face, tongue, or throat, or if you have severe side effects, stop taking Propecia immediately and contact your doctor for further medical advice.
