For men who are losing their hair, treatments to aid regrowth abound. One such treatment, Propecia, may help men who have specific patterns of hair loss, such as a receding hairline or male-pattern balding in which there is generally loss of hair from the top of the head as opposed to the sides.
How does it work?
In a typical male system, testosterone is converted into two additional forms: DHT (dihydrotestosterone) and estradiol. Propecia targets the conversion of testosterone into DHT, specifically, by blocking 5 alpha-reductase, an enzyme that facilitates the conversion of testosterone into DHT. Blocking this activity means there is less DHT in the system and, specifically, less DHT on the scalp. Research in the 1940s indicated that scalp DHT was toxic to hair growth and retention. Therefore, reducing DHT on the scalp has been theorized to help reduce hair loss. Propecia, as an inhibitor of DHT, has been found to be highly effective in reducing possibly toxic DHT levels. In fact, some studies suggest it can reduce DHT levels by 70% or more. To increase effectiveness, many individuals combine the use of Propecia with the use of Rogaine-type products to assist in hair regrowth.
As with any medication, there are some side effects. Some of the specific drawbacks of taking Propecia are related to the fact that this medication affects the steroid endocrine system in men by blocking the conversion of testosterone into DHT. Some of the side effects are sexually related, such as higher instance of impotence, decreased interest in sexual activity, sperm of thin consistency, and difficulty achieving orgasm. In addition to these sexual side effects, other side effects include dizziness, headaches, and swelling of the extremities, such as hands. For these reasons, it is advisable to see a doctor or health specialist to discuss if Propecia is the right avenue to take to treat hair loss. However, there are generic forms of Propecia that are available online without a prescription.
Generic Propecia online
Propecia is administered orally and is usually taken in 1 milligram (mg) doses. Individuals who take Propecia should understand that they will need to continue administration for an extended period of time to see any potential benefits. In addition, women should not take Propecia, and pregnant women should not handle the medication else they pose potential risk to their unborn fetuses.
In Australia, it is possible to order Propecia, or a generic form, online. For example, websites such as Edonlinestores.net, offer generic forms of Propecia that contain the active ingredient of finasteride. On Edonlinestores.net, a 6-month supply of finasteride tablets costs roughly $250 AUD plus additional $13 AUD to ship to most Australian cities. Orders are usually received within the week. A one-month supply is $79 AUD, meaning that purchasing in larger quantities would be highly cost effective. 1-ph.com offers up as few as 10 pills up to a full six-month supply, ranging in price from $20 AUD to $285 AUD. Individuals can likely shop around to find the best price on generic finasteride.
I am self employed. General Practitioner in Melbourne, VIC. My special interest: male reproductive system.