Buy Generic Propecia Online

Generic Propecia Information

Introduction

Propecia is a prescription medication containing the active compound finasteride, classified under men’s health and hair‑loss treatments. It is primarily approved for male‑pattern androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and is marketed by Merck Sharp & Dohme (MSD). In Hong Kong, dermatologists and trichologists frequently prescribe finasteride to men who seek to slow or reverse hair thinning on the scalp. Although Propecia is the original brand name, the same 1 mg finasteride formulation is also available as a generic product, offering a cost‑effective alternative for patients.

What is Propecia?

Propecia is a tablet formulation of finasteride (1 mg) intended for oral administration once daily. Finasteride is a synthetic 4‑azasteroid that acts as a selective inhibitor of type II 5α‑reductase, the enzyme responsible for converting testosterone to the more potent androgen dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in scalp dermal papilla cells.

The medication was developed by Merck Sharp & Dohme and received its first regulatory approval in the United States in 1997 for the treatment of male‑pattern hair loss. In Hong Kong, the Drug Office of the Department of Health has listed finasteride 1 mg as a prescription‑only medicine (POM) for this indication.

How Propecia Works

Finasteride binds competitively to the active site of type II 5α‑reductase, reducing the conversion of testosterone to DHT by approximately 70 % in the serum and up to 90 % in the scalp. DHT is the principal androgen that miniaturises hair follicles in genetically susceptible individuals, leading to shorter anagen (growth) phases and thinner hairs. By lowering DHT levels, finasteride:

• Decreases follicular miniaturisation, allowing existing hairs to maintain thickness.
• Extends the anagen phase, promoting the growth of new, thicker hairs.

Therapeutic effects typically become noticeable after 3–6 months of continuous use, with maximal benefit reported at 12 months. The drug’s half‑life is about 5–6 hours, but its biological effect on DHT persists for several days because the enzyme inhibition is essentially irreversible; new enzyme synthesis is required for activity to resume.

Conditions Treated with Propecia

• Male‑Pattern Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA).

  • The most common cause of hair loss in men, affecting up to 30 % of Hong Kong males by age 30 and 50 % by age 50.
  • Finasteride is approved for treatment of vertex (crown) and anterior‑mid scalp hair loss; it is not indicated for frontal hairline recession.

• Off‑label use for Hirsutism in Women (rare).

  • Although not approved for female patients, low‑dose finasteride has been investigated for androgen‑dependent facial hair growth. Use in women of child‑bearing potential is contraindicated due to teratogenic risk.

Finasteride does not treat alopecia areata, scarring alopecia, or hair loss resulting from chemotherapy, hormonal disorders other than androgen excess, or nutritional deficiencies.

Who is Propecia For?

Propecia is appropriate for adult men (≥18 years) who meet the following criteria:

• Clinically diagnosed with androgenetic alopecia involving the vertex and/or mid‑scalp region.
• Desire a pharmacologic approach to preserve existing hair and promote regrowth.
• Have no contraindications listed in the product’s prescribing information.

Patients who should avoid finasteride include:

• Women who are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or may become pregnant (finasteride is teratogenic).
• Men with a known hypersensitivity to finasteride or any excipients in the tablet.
• Individuals with severe liver dysfunction, as metabolism may be impaired.

In special populations—such as older adults or patients with chronic illnesses—clinical judgment is required to assess potential drug‑interaction risks and hepatic function.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Decreased libido
• Erectile dysfunction
• Reduced ejaculate volume
• Mild breast tenderness or enlargement (gynecomastia)

These events are reported in up to 5 % of users and often improve with continued therapy or after discontinuation.

Rare

• Allergic skin reactions (rash, pruritus)
• Testicular pain
• Persistent sexual dysfunction persisting after drug cessation (post‑finasteride syndrome) – incidence not well‑quantified, discussed in peer‑reviewed literature (e.g., JAMA Dermatol 202).

Serious

• Hypersensitivity reactions (anaphylaxis, angio‑edema) – immediate medical attention required.
• Elevated liver enzymes (hepatotoxicity) – monitor in patients with pre‑existing hepatic disease.

Drug–Drug Interactions

Finasteride is primarily metabolised by CYP3A4; co‑administration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole) may increase plasma concentrations modestly, though clinical significance is limited. Combined use with other anti‑androgenic agents (e.g., dutasteride, spironolactone) can lead to additive DHT suppression and should be overseen by a physician. No contraindicated interactions have been identified with common over‑the‑counter analgesics or antihypertensives.

Practical Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

• Standard Dose: 1 mg finasteride taken orally once daily, preferably at the same time each day.
• Missed Dose: If a dose is forgotten within 12 hours, take it as soon as remembered. Skip the dose if it is near the time of the next scheduled dose; not double‑dose.
• Overdose: Acute overdose of finasteride is unlikely to be life‑threatening. Patients should seek medical assistance, providing details of the amount ingested. Supportive care, including monitoring of vital signs and symptomatic treatment, is recommended.

Practical Precautions

• Food does not affect absorption; tablets may be taken with or without meals.
• Moderate alcohol consumption does not alter efficacy but should be discussed in patients with liver disease.
• Patients with severe renal impairment do not require dose adjustment, but clinical monitoring is advisable.

Buying Propecia from Our Online Pharmacy

Propecia and its generic counterpart finasteride 1 mg can be ordered securely from our online pharmacy in Hong Kong. We specialise in providing verified, high‑quality medications sourced from licensed international suppliers.

• Affordable pricing: Our cost structure is near manufacturer wholesale rates, passing savings directly to patients.
• Verified quality: Each batch is accompanied by a certificate of analysis and complies with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards.
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• Pharmacy‑broker model: We act as a broker for overseas licensed pharmacies, enabling access to medicines that may not be stocked locally while preserving your privacy.

Patients who encounter limited availability through local pharmacies, or who seek a more economical option, can rely on our service for a seamless, confidential buying experience.

FAQ

• Is Propecia available in both brand‑name and generic forms in Hong Kong?
  Yes. The brand‑name Propecia (Finasteride 1 mg) is marketed by MSD, while multiple generic manufacturers supply identical 1 mg finasteride tablets. Generic versions are typically priced lower and are approved by the Hong Kong Drug Office.

• Does Propecia require any special storage conditions?
  Store the tablets at room temperature (15–30 °C), away from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat sources. Do not refrigerate or freeze the medication, as extreme temperatures can degrade the active ingredient.

• What does a Propecia tablet look like?
  The brand‑name tablet is round, white, and bears the imprint “PRO 1” on one side and “MSD” on the other. Generic tablets may differ in shape, colour, or imprint but must contain 1 mg finasteride and meet the same pharmacopeial standards.

• Can I travel internationally with Propecia?
  Yes, you may carry a reasonable quantity for personal use (usually up to a 30‑day supply) when travelling. Keep the medication in its original packaging with a copy of the prescription and a declaration if required by the destination country’s customs regulations.

• Is finasteride detectable in standard drug‑testing panels for athletes?
  Finasteride was previously listed as a prohibited substance by the World Anti‑Doping Agency (WADA) because of its potential masking properties. Since 201, it has been removed from the prohibited list, but athletes should verify current regulations before competition.

• When was finasteride first approved for hair loss?
  The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved finasteride 1 mg for the treatment of male‑pattern alopecia in 1997, following a series of pivotal phase III clinical trials that demonstrated statistically significant hair‑count improvements versus placebo.

• How does Propecia compare with older anti‑androgen therapies like cyproterone acetate?
  Finasteride selectively inhibits 5α‑reductase, targeting DHT production without broadly blocking androgen receptors. In contrast, cyproterone acetate exerts anti‑androgenic effects through receptor antagonism and often carries a higher incidence of liver toxicity and menstrual disturbances when used in women.

• Are there any halal certifications for finasteride tablets marketed in Hong Kong?
  Some generic manufacturers obtain halal certification from recognised bodies, confirming that the inactive ingredients (e.g., gelatin, magnesium stearate) meet halal standards. Verify the certification on the product label or the supplier’s documentation before purchase.

• Can Propecia be taken together with herbal supplements such as saw‑saw‑tree?
  Saw‑saw‑tree contains compounds that may also inhibit 5α‑reductase, potentially leading to additive DHT suppression. Although no serious interactions have been recorded, patients should discuss concurrent herbal supplement use with a healthcare professional to avoid unexpected side‑effects.

• What are the personal import limits for finasteride into Hong Kong?
  Hong Kong customs permits individuals to import a personal supply of prescription medication for up to three months, provided it is for personal use, accompanied by a valid prescription, and the total value does not exceed HK$5,000. Exceeding these limits may trigger additional customs clearance procedures.

• Does opening the bottle of Propecia affect its shelf life?
  Finasteride tablets are stable in their sealed blister packs. Once the bottle is opened, exposure to humidity and light may gradually reduce potency. It is advisable to keep the tablets in the original blister and store the bottle tightly closed, using the medication within the labeled expiry date.

Glossary

5α‑Reductase

An enzyme that converts testosterone into the more potent androgen dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Finasteride selectively inhibits the type II isoform of this enzyme in the scalp.

Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA)

A genetically predisposed form of hair loss in men, characterised by progressive thinning of the vertex and mid‑scalp hair due to DHT‑mediated follicular miniaturisation.

Post‑Finasteride Syndrome

A controversial term describing persistent sexual, neurological, or physical symptoms that continue after discontinuation of finasteride. Evidence is limited and ongoing research aims to clarify causality.

Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)

International quality standards that ensure pharmaceutical products are consistently produced and controlled according to quality criteria, reducing the risk of contamination and variability.

⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided about Propecia is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation. All treatment decisions should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to Propecia for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription‑based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication.