How Does Propecia Work and What are Some of the Possible Side Effects?

There are many undocumented medical cures for hair loss that have been circulated the market for years, you can either blindly accept the claims or you can do research to make sure that these products are reliable. Some of these products have been backed by scientific studies and have documented proof on the products on exactly how they work and are approved by FDA. These studies show the degree of effectiveness on hair growth and the possible side effects that may be associated with them. One of these products that is FDA approved is Propecia. In the recent years Propecia has become a popular product, but it is always important to research this product thoroughly before using it to become familiar with how it works and also its possible side effects.

Propecia is an oral medication available by prescription only, and it has been introduced to the market by Merk Pharmaceuticals more than a decade ago. Finisteride is approved only for use by men, and has become available as the brand Propecia. In scientific studies, it has been shown to regrow hair in some men and stop hair loss in an even higher percentage. Finisteride works by decreasing the formation of DHT, a hormone responsible in large for male pattern hair loss, while not reducing testosterone, the overall male hormone responsible for masculinity. It works by blocking the conversion of testosterone to DHT. It does this by inhibiting the action of the type II 5-alpha reductase enzyme that is present in higher concentration in and around the hair follicles of men with thinning hair that is induced by Androgenic Alopecia. The manufacture suggests to take this medication orally once a day for more than one year or longer to notice any effects on hair loss. It has been suggested that Finasteride works best for early and moderate hair loss, but it may also help patients with more advanced hair loss to preserve their remaining hair or slow down the progression of hair loss in men with male pattern hair loss.

As with any medication, there are some side effects that are associated with Propecia. The data shows that side effects from Finasteride at the 1mg dose is uncommon and that any side effects that may involve sexual function are mild and occur in less than 2% of all patients. There are reports of decreased libido, ejaculation disorder and orgasm disorder. there are also reports of male infertility and/or poor semen quality with the use of Propecia. In some men, there are reports of related adverse reactions to the breast, including breast tenderness and breast enlargement. Most reported cases of side effects occurred soon after starting the medication, but there are reports that it can occur at later points in time. Most were reversed in those who discontinued therapy but there are cases where the symptoms continued even when the therapy was stopped. this medication should be prescribed under the supervision of a hair loss specialist and these side effects should be discussed thoroughly. it is encouraged to return to the physician for follow up evaluation. If the patient is experiencing any of the adverse reactions while taking Finasteride, the use of this medication should be discontinued and patient should contact their doctor.

Dr. Mike Meshkin, a hair transplant specialist based in Los Angeles and Orange County offers many advises to his clients to start hair loss prevention when they notice thinning at the initial stages. It is important to prevent progression of hair loss by using the right hair medical regiment. If hair loss is genetic, then hair transplant can be an option to restore the hair that is lost and medical treatment is used to prevent future hair loss and keep hair healthy.

To find out more about your hair loss, visit one of Dr. Meshkin's hair transplant and hair restoration clinics in Los Angeles or in Irvine locations. Dr. Meshkin will use the latest techniques to find out the cause of your hair loss and give the best hair restoration recommendations customized to your needs and concerns. You can also visit www.meshkinmedical.com to find out about the hair care products that may help with your hair loss.

If you are suffering from hair loss or hair thinning you can contact us at (949) 219-0027 to schedule for a free consultation or visit our website at www.MeshkinMedical.com.