Propecia - Finasteride

What is it?

Composition

The main active ingredient in Propecia is finasteride, 1 mg. Finasteride is a synthetic substance that acts as an inhibitor of 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). By lowering DHT levels in the body, finasteride helps prevent further hair loss.

Additional substances contained in Propecia include:

• Lactose monohydrate
• Corn starch
• Primellose
• Hypromellose
• Magnesium stearate
• Colors and coating agents such as talc, titanium dioxide, and macrogol

These auxiliary components ensure the stability of the drug and also help ensure its safe and effective absorption in the body.

How to use?

Propecia requires strict adherence to the instructions to achieve maximum effectiveness and minimize possible side effects. The drug is taken orally, usually one tablet (1 mg) per day, regardless of food intake. It is important to maintain regularity of intake, as skipping doses may reduce the therapeutic effect.

Directions for use:

1. Take one tablet at the same time every day.
2. Wash the tablet with plenty of water, without chewing or breaking it.
3. The duration of treatment is usually several months to see the first results. In some cases, noticeable improvement may occur only after 3-6 months.

If you miss a tablet, do not double the dose the next day. A long course of treatment is necessary to achieve a lasting result. It is important to remember that if you stop taking Propecia, the effect may weaken and hair loss will resume.

How does it work?

Propecia works by inhibiting the activity of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is the active form of the hormone that binds to receptors in hair follicles, reducing their size and gradually leading to their atrophy. As a result of this process, hair thins and begins to fall out, which is especially pronounced in androgenetic alopecia.

Finasteride, the active substance in Propecia, reduces the concentration of DHT in the blood and scalp tissue, which slows down or stops the balding process. Reducing DHT levels helps strengthen the hair follicles, which prevents their further degradation. This allows the hair to remain thicker and healthier. In addition, in some men, Propecia may even promote partial hair restoration in areas where hair has already begun to fall out.

It is important to note that the effect of Propecia is only maintained with continuous use of the drug. When you stop taking finasteride, DHT levels begin to rise again, which can lead to a resumption of hair loss within a few months.

Indications

Propecia is recommended for use in men suffering from androgenetic alopecia, also known as male pattern baldness. This type of hair loss is most common in adult men and is associated with genetic predisposition and the influence of the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Propecia helps slow down the process of hair loss and, in some cases, promotes partial hair restoration.

The main indications for using Propecia:

• Prevention of further hair loss in men with androgenetic alopecia.
• Strengthening weak and thinning hair.
• Restoration of hair in areas where it has already begun to fall out, with regular use of the drug.
• Maintaining the achieved result after a course of treatment for hair loss.

Propecia is prescribed only to men, since its use in women and children can be ineffective and even dangerous. Particular attention should be paid to the fact that the drug is contraindicated for women of reproductive age, as it can cause serious disturbances in the development of the fetus if contact with the active substance occurs.

Contraindications

The use of Propecia has a number of contraindications that must be taken into account before starting treatment. The drug is intended exclusively for men, and its use is strictly prohibited for women and children. This is due to the fact that finasteride can cause serious side effects, especially when exposed to pregnant women.

The main contraindications for using Propecia are:

• Hypersensitivity or allergy to finasteride or any of the excipients of the drug.
• Age under 18 years - Propecia is not intended for use in children and adolescents.
• Women, especially during pregnancy and breastfeeding - finasteride can harm the developing fetus, so even contact with crushed tablets can be dangerous.
• The presence of severe liver disease - finasteride is metabolized in the liver, and complications are possible in patients with impaired liver function.

Before starting to take Propecia, it is important to consult a doctor to exclude possible risks and make sure there are no contraindications. This is especially true for men with chronic diseases or taking other medications.

Side effects

Although Propecia is generally well tolerated, some men may experience side effects associated with the use of finasteride. These effects can range from mild to more severe, so it is important to monitor your condition closely during treatment and contact your doctor if necessary.

Possible side effects of Propecia:

• Decreased libido and sexual activity - one of the most common side effects that may occur in the first months of use.
• Erectile dysfunction - some men may have difficulty maintaining an erection.
• Decreased seminal fluid volume - possible change in the amount of sperm released.
• Allergic reactions such as rash, itching, or swelling - are rare, but require immediate discontinuation and contact with a doctor.
• Psychological effects, including depression or anxiety - a small number of users may experience mood changes.