Propecia Generic Name: finasteride (fin AS ter ide) Brand Names: Propecia, Proscar What is the most important information I should know about finasteride? Women who are or who may become pregnant must not handle crushed finasteride tablets. The medication could be absorbed through the skin. Finasteride will cause birth defects in a male fetus. What is finasteride? Finasteride prevents the breakdown of testosterone in the body. The breakdown of testosterone produces a number of substances, one of which can lead to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Finasteride is used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate). Finasteride is also used to reduce hair loss due to baldness caused by hats facts shampoos male pattern baldness. Finasteride may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide. What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking finasteride? Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have liver disease. You may not be able to take finasteride, or you may need a lower dose or special monitoring during therapy. Do not take or handle this medication if you are pregnant or are planning a pregnancy. Finasteride is in the FDA pregnancy category X. This means that it will cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Women who are or who may male pattern baldness cure facts shampoos become pregnant must not take finasteride and must not handle crushed finasteride tablets. The medication could be absorbed through the skin and cause birth defects in a male fetus. It is not known whether finasteride passes into breast milk. Finasteride is not intended for use by women. Do not take this medication if you are breast-feeding a baby. How should I take finasteride? Take finasteride exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you. Take each dose with a full glass of water. Finasteride can be taken baldness caused by hats facts shampoos with or without
