Propecia and Creatinine Levels
Dear Doctor.
I am a 34 year old male with slightly receding temples and full hair on the rest of my head who has been taking 1mg Propecia daily for almost exactly 4 years with good results (no regrowth but no extra balding). Over the last year I had 2 blood tests that have shown an increased level of creatinine (not creatine). I mentioned to my GP this could be from propecia use. He suggested I quit the drug for 2 weeks and have another blood test to see if there are any changes. So I have two questions for you:1: are you aware of any increase in creatinine in the blood from propecia use?
2: will quitting for 2 weeks affect my hair loss/growth
Many thanks in advance.
Stopping Propecia for 2 weeks should not impact your hair loss/growth significantly, if at all.
In general, elevated levels of creatinine is a non-specific measurement of the state of your kidney function. It is VERY important that you follow up with your doctor for this. You may have other serious medical issues unrelated to Propecia, since Propecia is a drug that is metabolized primarily by your liver (not kidney). I would not expect Propecia to affect your kidney function or creatinine levels.
There are many factors that can contribute to your levels being high. Dehydration, intense workouts, more muscular frame than the average man, a high protein diet. It is amazing the amount of doctors that do not take these into account. Not everyone fits into the metrics they provide that should be considered normal levels of creatinine. Obesity could also be a factor. I am 6 foot and 210 pounds and I have had doctors look at my height and weight and compare to their chart and tell me I am borderline obese. I take off my shirt and show them I the definition in my abs and body and say, “great, where would you like for me to lose this fat?” Any blood work to determine correct levels of creatinine must be done after fasting and workouts should be stopped for a period of 2 days. Drink a gallon of water a day before testing. If levels are still high you may want to see a Nephrologist for more accurate testing.