Propecia is one of the brand names for drug finasteride, and is one of the medications that can be used to control hair loss and some would argue, encourage regrowth. There are however, serious potential side effects to this drug which need to be taken into consideration.
If Propecia is going to show results it will be seen within the first 12 months, after this if there is no improvement this form of medication should be stopped as it will not work. As this is a prescription drug it will be closely monitored by an expert in hair loss as some of the side effects could be worse than the hair loss itself. For some men it can affect their sex drive leaving them with a decreased desire for sex, erection difficulties and a decrease in the amount of semen.
Other side effects to Propecia can be just as devastating. There can be allergic reactions such as hives, itching, rashes, swelling of face and lips, testicular pain and breast tenderness and enlargement. If there are feelings of light headedness, dizziness or feeling faint treatment should be stopped and advice sought. These side effects can continue after treatment has stopped and it is important that if any of these signs are showing you seek the advice of your consultant. As with any medication not all medicines suit and it may be another form of medication needs to be tried.
Is it worth the risk?
Some would say so, although if you’re considering taking Propecia, you should take into account the views of those who have experienced adverse effects.
In some cases the side effects have been so severe, that the user has continued to experience them many years after they stopped taking the drug.
Also bear in mind that Merck, the pharmaceutical manufacturer behind Propecia, is one of the worlds most sued companies. The US Food And Drug Administration (FDA) have confirmed that Propecia can indeed cause side effects, and as a result, Merck have been the target of hundreds of lawsuits.
A final very important note – Propecia is a danger to pregnant women, and they should not even touch the medication with their hands as it could cause harm to the unborn baby.
For more information please see the following links:
