Propecia: What It Does, How to Use It

Worried about thinning hair? Propecia (finasteride) is a prescription pill that can slow male pattern hair loss and help regrow hair on the crown. It targets the hormone DHT, which shrinks hair follicles over time. Many men see visible improvement after three to six months and fuller results around 12 months.

How Propecia works and who should use it

Take one 1 mg tablet by mouth once daily. Stick to the same time each day and don’t double doses if you miss one. Propecia is approved for men only; it is not safe for women who are pregnant or may become pregnant because it can cause birth defects. Doctors usually prescribe it for men with mild to moderate hair loss on the crown and vertex, not for complete baldness.

Expectations and what to measure

Don’t expect overnight change. Track progress with photos every two to three months from the same angle and lighting. If you don’t see any improvement after a year, talk to your doctor about alternatives like minoxidil, platelet-rich plasma, or hair transplant options. If you stop Propecia, any hair you gained will usually fall out within 6 to 12 months.

Interactions, tests, and special cases

Finasteride has few drug interactions, but mention all medications and supplements to your prescriber. Men planning prostate screening should inform their urologist because finasteride lowers PSA by about half. Kidney or liver problems rarely change dosing, but a provider will evaluate if you have major health issues.

Side effects, risks, and what to watch for

Common side effects include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and reduced ejaculate volume. These happen to a small percentage and often improve after stopping the drug, but some men report persistent effects. Other possible reactions are mood changes and breast tenderness. If you notice sudden breast lumps, nipple discharge, or severe mood shifts, see a doctor. Propecia can lower PSA levels used in prostate cancer screening; tell your clinician you take finasteride so they can interpret PSA tests correctly.

Safe buying and prescription tips

Only buy Propecia with a valid prescription. If you shop online, use licensed pharmacies and check for verifiable contact details, pharmacy licenses, and secure payment. Avoid suspiciously cheap offers or sites that don’t require a prescription. A telehealth consult can be a convenient way to get a prescription if you can’t see a doctor in person.

Quick practical takeaways

Propecia works best when started early. One 1 mg tablet daily is the usual dose. Watch for sexual side effects and mood changes, and always buy from licensed sources. If you have doubts, ask a healthcare professional—simple questions can prevent bigger problems later.

Plan regular check-ins with your prescriber. Get a baseline PSA before starting finasteride and discuss fertility if you want children. Combining Propecia with topical minoxidil often gives better results. Lifestyle matters: quit smoking, eat protein-rich foods, and manage stress to support hair health. Patience pays off—changes take time but can be worth it truly.