Propecia

Propecia is an oral hair regrowth medication containing Finasteride 1 mg as its active ingredient. It belongs to the 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitor drug class and is manufactured by MSD / Merck. It is the originator brand of Finasteride 1 mg for hair loss treatment.

Finasteride works by inhibiting the Type II 5-Alpha Reductase enzyme, which converts Testosterone into DHT (Dihydrotestosterone) — the hormone primarily responsible for hereditary hair loss. DHT causes hair follicles to progressively shrink until hair thins and falls out.

Finasteride 1 mg reduces scalp DHT levels by approximately 60–70% within 24 hours, halting follicle miniaturisation, strengthening thinning hair, and stimulating new hair growth.

Propecia contains the same active ingredient as generic Finasteride and Firide. The only difference is that it is the originator brand from Merck at a higher price.

Androgenetic Alopecia (Male Pattern Hair Loss): Propecia treats hereditary hair loss in men — the most common cause of hair loss. It typically begins with a receding hairline and vertex (crown) thinning.

Finasteride hair loss medication works best when started early, before follicles are permanently damaged. The sooner you start, the better the results.

Not for: Hair loss caused by nutritional deficiencies, autoimmune conditions, stress, chemotherapy, or thyroid problems.

Important: Propecia is for men only. Do not use in women, especially those who are pregnant or planning pregnancy, as it may cause birth defects in male foetuses.

Dosage: Take Finasteride 1 mg once daily. Can be taken at any time, with or without food. Swallow whole with water.

Duration: Must be taken continuously for at least 3–6 months before results become visible. Some may need up to 12 months for full effect. Continuous use is required — hair loss will resume if you stop.

If you miss a dose: Skip the missed dose and take the next one at the usual time. Do not take a double dose.

Important:

• No dose adjustment needed — 1 mg/day is the standard dose for everyone
• Women and children must not handle broken or crushed tablets, as Finasteride can be absorbed through the skin
• Can be combined with topical Minoxidil for enhanced results

Common side effects (less than 2%):

• Decreased libido
• Erectile dysfunction
• Reduced ejaculate volume

Less common side effects:

• Breast tenderness or enlargement (gynaecomastia)
• Skin rash
• Depressed mood

Important information about sexual side effects:

• Affects only 1–2% of users
• Most symptoms resolve even while continuing the medication
• Symptoms reverse upon stopping the drug
• Post-Finasteride Syndrome (persistent effects after stopping) has been reported but is very rare and remains medically debated

Effect on PSA: Finasteride reduces PSA levels by approximately 50%. Inform your doctor if undergoing prostate cancer screening.

Do not use:

• Women — especially pregnant women or those planning pregnancy. Finasteride may cause birth defects in male foetuses
• Children and adolescents under 18 years old
• Allergy to Finasteride or any component of the medication

Use with caution:

• Liver disease — Finasteride is metabolised in the liver; impaired function may increase drug levels
• Urinary problems — ensure prostate cancer is ruled out before starting
• Blood donation — stop the medication at least 1 month before donating
• Women and children must not handle broken tablets

Propecia vs. generic Finasteride: Same active ingredient — Finasteride 1 mg. Propecia is the originator brand by Merck at a higher price. Generic Finasteride is available from various manufacturers with equivalent efficacy at a more accessible price.

Propecia vs. Firide (Thai generic): Same active ingredient — Finasteride 1 mg. Firide is a Thai generic by Siam Bheasach, Thai FDA approved, much more affordable than Propecia, ideal for long-term use with equivalent efficacy.

Propecia vs. Minoxidil: Different mechanisms of action. Finasteride reduces DHT internally, while Minoxidil stimulates hair growth externally (topical). Using both together provides superior results — recommended for those seeking maximum benefit.

Finasteride starts reducing scalp DHT within 24 hours, but visible results take time because each hair's growth cycle spans several months.

Results timeline:

• 1–3 months: Hair shedding may temporarily increase (shedding phase) — this is normal and shows the drug is working
• 3–6 months: Noticeable reduction in hair loss; hair begins to thicken
• 6–12 months: Full effect visible — new growth at the crown and existing hair becomes stronger
• 12–24 months: Maximum results — continuous use needed to maintain

If no improvement after 12 months, consult your doctor for reassessment.

Propecia is a pharmacist-dispensed medication. You can order online from Intimo Life.

Can I buy Propecia online?

Yes. Order through Intimo Life — select the product, consult with a licensed pharmacist online, and receive your medication at home.

Do I need a prescription?

A doctor's prescription is not required, but the medication must be dispensed by a licensed pharmacist. At Intimo Life, our pharmacist will review your symptoms and health history to confirm suitability before shipping.

How does Intimo Life ship orders?

We deliver nationwide in Thailand with discreet packaging — no product names on the outside.