Finasteride (generic Propecia)

Take 1 tablet of Finasteride each day. Can be taken with or without food.

You must continue to take Finasteride for the treatment to work.

Side effects of Finasteride are uncommon and usually mild.

Sometimes Finasteride can cause a rash, reduced sex drive, low mood, erection problems or tenderness on or around the nipples. Very rarely, sexual side effects can be permanent and remain after stopping the medication.

For full information on side effects and correct use, see the patient information leaflet. If any side effects concern you, contact us via your Patient Record.

For most men, Finasteride takes 3-6 months of daily use to show effects. The active ingredient (finasteride) has been shown to be effective in preventing hair loss in men in 9 out of 10 cases. In some cases, men experience hair regrowth.

If you stop taking Finasteride, your hair loss will return. Finasteride is most effective in men with mild to moderate hair loss on the top of their head caused by male pattern baldness. There is little evidence that it is effective in reversing a receding hairline.

Finasteride will not work faster or better if you take more that 1 tablet a day.

If you forget to take Finasteride, take the next dose as soon as you remember. Do not take more than 1 tablet in 24 hours. Do not take a double dose to make up for the forgotten tablet.