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HealthRX.com · Printable side-effect diary

Propecia and Proscar finasteride trial side effect and hair diary

Use this sheet to record hair changes and sexual or mood side effects while taking finasteride for male pattern hair loss, then bring it to your prescriber or pharmacist. It helps you compare what you see with what the trial article describes.

Companion to “Olsen Finasteride 5-year Trial: A Plain-English Overview of What It Established” · healthrx.com/trials-olsen-finasteride/overview · Facts checked Nov 11, 2026

Medicine and start details

Copy these from your bottle label and prescription record.

Strength shown on labelCopy exactly as printed
Male or female patientNote the sex listed on the prescription

Weekly hair and side effect log

Write what you notice, even if it seems minor. Record the date each time.

DateHair change noticedSexual side effect noticedMood or sleep changeShared with prescriber

Before your visit

  • Bring the medicine bottle or box so the product name is visible.
  • Write down the date you started and any days you missed.
  • Note whether you are taking Propecia or Proscar, as the trial article describes them differently.
  • Gather any dated scalp photos taken from the same angle.
  • Bring this log and a list of all other medicines and supplements you take.
  • Confirm with your pharmacist which side effects they want reported.
  • Check with your prescriber how long you should continue before reviewing results.

Questions to ask at the visit

  1. Is my prescription Propecia or Proscar, and why was that one chosen?
  2. How will we measure whether my hair is changing over time?
  3. Which sexual side effects should I report, and how quickly should I call?
  4. How should I report mood changes, and who should I contact if they happen?
  5. What is the plan if I decide to stop treatment, and how will we monitor after stopping?
  6. Would you advise checking the label warnings with me before my next refill?

This sheet records information for a conversation with your prescriber or pharmacist. It does not replace their instructions or the medication's prescribing information.