Generic Propecia

Generic Propecia or Finasteride is used for treating male pattern hair loss. In addition to this the drug treats Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (known as BPH or enlarged prostate). These two drugs are different. So essentially you have to order the drug according to your specific requirement. While 1mg of Finasteraide is used for hair loss, 1mg of Finasteraide is used in BPH.

What is Finasteride?

Finasteride is the active ingredient present in generic Propecia. It belongs to the category of medicines known as Type II 5-alpha reductase inhibitors. The enzyme 5AR converts testosterone into Dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Higher DHT can result in hair loss. Finasteride prevents this conversion and thereby reduces the amount of DHT in the body. This considerably brings down the rate of hair loss.

Propecia is the brand name of Finasteride 1mg. It was approved by US FDA in 1997 as a remedy for hair loss. The active ingredient of Propecia and Generic Propecia is the same – Finasteride 1mg. Besides the difference in cost rest remains same in both the drugs – branded and generic! Generic version obviously costs far less than the branded.

Method of Dosage

The dose of Generic Propecia 1mg tablet should be directed by medical expert. It is an oral drug to be taken (swallowed) with water once in a day. Take the drug at evenly spaced time by selecting a fixed dose time in a day. Regularly follow that time in order. A minimum of three month course is required to be undertaken to get optimum results from the drug. In case of any missed dose keep going with the next scheduled dose. Do not take double dose to make up for the skipped dose. Further queries on dosage can be availed from your health expert. Discontinuing of course (drug treatment) may lead to reversal of effect within a year’s time. You need to share information of the drugs (prescription/non-prescription or herbal) you take regularly to your doctor before he recommends you the dose of Generic Propecia.

Side effects of Generic Propecia

Beware of some of the side effects of the drug Propecia. Keep in touch with your health expert who recommended you the drug in case of any alarming side effects:

• Impotence or loss of libido
• Difficulty in reaching orgasm
• Abnormal ejaculation
• Swelling in limbs
• Swelling or tenderness in breasts
• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Headache
• Runny nose
• Skin rash

General precautions to be taken with Generic Propecia

Generic Propecia can affect a blood test called PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) for the screening of prostate cancer. In case you are going for a PSA Test keep your doctor (Pathologist) informed about your regular dose of Propecia. The drug is not meant for paediatric patients and women. Especially the drug in crushed or broken form should not be taken by pregnant women as it may potentially harm their foetus or may permanently damage it. Older men with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) should be careful with this drug as their PSA levels may be reduced by 50%. Men above 55 years of age who run high risk of prostate cancer should stay away from the drug.