What Is Generic Propecia?

Generic Propecia is used to treat male pattern hair loss. It is available in the market under the name of Finasteride. This drug is used for male pattern baldness and benign prostatic hyperplasia treatment. The available prescriptions are available at 1mg and 5mg tablets, but the 5mg is prescribed for enlarged prostate.

How Does Generic Propecia Work?

Dihydrotestosterone or DHT contributes largely to male hair loss when huge amount of testosterone is converted into DHT. Generic Propecia works by blocking the conversion of testosterone into DHT. The reduced amount of DHT in the body means strengthened hair roots and the end of hair loss including the enhancement of hair regrowth.

How Does One Take Generic Propecia?

Generic Propecia is taken orally once every day or as prescribed by a medical practitioner. This drug can be taken with meals or on an empty stomach. Propecia needs to be taken regularly such as every day for at least 3 months before you appreciate its full effects. It must be noted that discontinuation of taking the drug would lose the effects gained from the drug intake.

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Generic Propecia?

Like all medicines, taking Generic Propecia has certain side effects. The most notable side effects affect the sexual functions and sexual performance of men. Among the noted side effects are the following:

• Decreased libido or sexual appetite among 1.8 percent of men
• Erectile dysfunction or impotence for up to 1.3 percent of men. Erectile dysfunction or the inability to achieve erection and if erection is attained, an impotent man has major difficulty in maintaining this erection, is the second highest condition that affects men who take generic Propecia.
• Abnormal or decreased amount of ejaculation for up to 1.2 percent
• Difficulty in breathing
• Hives or skin rashes and other signs of allergic reaction
• Swelling of the different parts of the face such as the tongue, lips, and throat
• Swelling of hands and feet
• Pain in the testicles
• Feeling that you might faint
• Breast pain, lump, nipple discharge or any other breast changes
• Trouble reaching orgasm
• Breast tenderness
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Runny nose

If you feel any of the mentioned side effects, it would be wise for you to stop taking the medicine right away and consult your doctor for proper medical advice.

What Should I Discuss with My Doctor Before Taking Generic Propecia?

Before taking Generic Propecia, tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:

• History of allergic reaction to medicines that contain Finasteride
• History of allergic reaction to medicines that contain Dutasteride
• Inform your doctor about all the medicines that you are taking including vitamins, over-the-counter medicines, herbal products, minerals, food supplements, and other drugs prescribed by doctors.
• Based on researches, generic Propecia was found to have no known drug interactions in so far as common drugs that were tested are concerned.

What Should I Avoid While Taking Generic Propecia?

• Finasteride is a drug specifically formulated for men alone; therefore, women and children should never take this drug.
• Finasteride can seep through the skin so direct contact with the medicine should be strictly avoided especially among women and children.
• Although this medicine is not used by women, direct exposure to this drug can cause still birth or birth defects by pregnant women.
• Women who are pregnant and who intend to get pregnant should not handle Finasteride. If a woman gets exposed with this medicine out of crushed or broken tablet, wash the exposed area with soap and water immediately.
• Do not take this medicine without consulting a doctor.
• Generic Propecia should be taken regularly like once a day or as prescribed by doctor. If you missed a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for you to take your next dose, skip the dose and get back to your regular schedule of taking the drug.
• Generic Propecia should be taken only once in a day. Do not take 2 doses at once even if you missed a dose.

Storage

Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. Keep in a tightly sealed container.