What are the risks of taking Propecia (finasteride)?

Propecia (finasteride) can cause serious health problems in certain groups of people. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other baldness treatment options if you are at high risk of Propecia complications.

Propecia (finasteride) can cause birth defects in an unborn baby if a pregnant woman handles the medication without protection. If you are currently pregnant, think you could be pregnant, or are planning a pregnancy, and have come in contact with broken or crushed finasteride tablets, wash the area with soap and water immediately and call your doctor. 

What should I tell my doctor before starting Propecia (finasteride)?

Tell your health care professional about all your medical conditions. Propecia is not suitable for people with certain medical conditions. Make sure your doctor knows about any urination problems or liver disease before starting treatment for male pattern baldness. Finasteride can cause changes in breast tissue—tell your doctor if you experience any tenderness, pain, lumps, or enlargement of the breasts while on Propecia.

Be sure to tell your doctor about all your current medications, including over-the-counter dietary supplements and herbal remedies—this can help avoid serious drug interactions with finasteride. 

Tell your doctor if you have previously had an allergic reaction to finasteride.

What precautions should I take while on Propecia (finasteride)?

Keep all your appointments with your doctor or health care professional while on Propecia (finasteride). Your doctor will order blood tests to check liver function and PSA levels while keeping an eye on side effects during your treatment.

Call your doctor immediately or go to the emergency room if you experience symptoms such as lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting, cold sweats, confusion, hives, red skin rash, swelling of the lips or face, or tingling of the hands or feet—these can be signs of an allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention.

What drug can interact with Propecia (finasteride)?

Taking Propecia with certain other medications can affect how it works. Drug interactions between finasteride and other medicines can also increase the risk of adverse effects. The below-listed medications can interact with Propecia (finasteride). 

• St John’s Wort
• Carbamazepine

This list may not describe all possible Propecia interactions. Be sure to give your doctor and pharmacist a list of all your current medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, dietary supplements, and herbal remedies. Also, tell your health care provider if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use recreational drugs because some of these substances can cause serious health complications when used with Propecia.