I had taken propecia for a year and stopped for 2 years, would like to share some experience.
When I started taking propecia, the condition began to improve, after 5- 6 months, some baby hair was found in those bald area. The overall density of hair had been improved, but for the long-dead area, it didn't help much. Then I stopped taking it for 2 years, the condition worsened drasticly, my condition is now worse than Vladimir Putin that I determined to do the FUG to turn over a new leaf.
Medicine can help to halt the deteriorating condition but can't save dead to live, people are recommended to continue medication even after trasnplantation surgery.
For the side effect, my experience wasn't too bad, my impetus for sex still depends on my partners.