Q I am 35 years old and have been using Propecia for the last 3 years, waiting to save enough money for a hair transplant. I no longer feel comfortable using it due to side effects. Can hair transplantation still be effective even without continuing to take this drug afterwards?

A Many people choose not to take Propecia or choose not to take it due to side effects and the surgical hair restoration is just as effective. The only difference is that medications can prevent further hair loss whereas surgery cannot.

Medications are not needed for the hair transplant to be successful or the transplanted hair to grow and be permanent.

Q: I had some side effects from Propecia 1mg a day after being on the medication for about 10 days that included decreased sex drive and difficulty in holding an erection. I would like to try to continue taking the medication. What should I do? A: First, you should discuss this with your prescribing physician. [...]