Proscar (Finasteride)
Proscar is a drug used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also known as an enlarged prostate. The active ingredient in Proscar is finasteride, which is a type II 5-alpha reductase inhibitor. 5-alpha reductase is an enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is a more active form of testosterone. DHT is the hormone responsible for the development of male characteristics such as facial and body hair, and it also plays a role in the development of BPH. By inhibiting 5-alpha reductase, Proscar reduces the amount of DHT in the body, which leads to a reduction in the size of the prostate.
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Medication Information: Proscar (Finasteride)
Uses of Proscar:
In adult men, Proscar is used to decrease an enlarged prostate (also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH). It can be used alone or in combination with other medications to alleviate BPH symptoms and possibly avoid surgery. Proscar (Finasteride) may help with BPH symptoms by reducing the need to urinate, improving urine flow with less straining, reducing the sense that the bladder isn't empty, and reducing overnight urination.
This medication works by lowering the quantity of DHT, a natural body hormone that drives prostate growth. Proscar isn't approved for prostate cancer prevention. It may raise the risk of acquiring a very dangerous form of prostate cancer by a small amount.
How to use Proscar?
- Take this medication by mouth once a day, with or without food, as instructed by your doctor.
- A pregnant woman or a woman who may become pregnant should not handle the tablet if it has been crushed or broken.
- To receive the best benefit from this medication, take it daily. It's important to remember to use it at the same time every day.
- It could take 6 to 12 months for you to observe a difference. If your illness does not improve or worsen, contact your doctor.
Side Effects of Proscar:
- You may lose your sexual ability or desire. This medicine may reduce the volume of semen released during intercourse in certain men.
- Proscar may also help you develop more hair.
- Serious side effects include such as a lump in your breast, nipple discharge, breast enlargement/tenderness/pain, testicular pain, or inability to pee.
- If you detect any symptoms of a major allergic response, such as a rash, itching/swelling (particularly of the face/tongue/throat), extreme dizziness, or problems breathing, seek medical treatment right away.
Proscar Precautions:
- If you are allergic to finasteride or have any other allergies, notify your doctor or pharmacist before taking it. Inactive chemicals may be included in this product, causing allergic reactions or other issues. For further information, speak with your pharmacist.
- Tell your doctor or pharmacist about your medical history, especially if you have liver disease, prostate cancer, infections, or urinary issues, before using this medication.
- Through the skin, the medicine can be absorbed. A woman who is pregnant or trying to become pregnant should not touch a tablet if the film coating has been damaged or the tablet has been crushed. Proscar exposure in a developing male child can cause genital malformations.
- Proscar should not be used by women, especially if they are pregnant or nursing. It has the potential to harm an unborn or nursing baby. If you have any questions regarding this medication, talk to your doctor.
Storage:
- Store at below 30-35 degrees C (86- 95 degrees F).
- Store in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight and heat.
- Keep out of children's reach.
Proscar Drug interactions:
Keep a list of everything you use (including prescription and non-prescription pharmaceuticals, as well as herbal products) and discuss it with your doctor and pharmacist. Without your doctor's permission, do not begin, stop, or modify the dosage of any medications. The findings of a blood test used to identify prostate cancer may be influenced by this medicine (prostatic-specific antigen or PSA levels).
