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Finasteride (Propecia)
Finasteride (Propecia) is a prescription drug that is commonly used for the treatment of male pattern baldness in men. While the medication is not a cure for hair loss, it is effective in stopping hair loss and regrowing hair on the top and front of the head. The medication comes in tablet form and is available in only one strength. Potential side effects of the drug may include sexual problems such as impotence, decreased sex drive, or decreased ejaculate amount.
from eMedTV.comFinasteride (Propecia®) is a prescription medicine that has been licensed for the treatment of male pattern baldness (known medically as androgenetic alopecia).
(Click Propecia Uses for more information on what it is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with finasteride. However, not everyone who takes the medicine will have problems. In fact, most people tolerate finasteride well. When side effects do occur, they are often minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
The most common side effects of finasteride include:
- Decreased libido, also known as decreased sex drive (see Propecia Sexual Side Effects)
- Erectile dysfunction, also known as ED or impotence
- Decreased ejaculate amount.
(Click Propecia Side Effects to learn about the specific side effects of this medication, including serious side effects to look out for.)
You can also read about other possible side effects by clicking on the following eMedTV links:
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD