Indications
Proscar is a prescription drug used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men with an enlarged prostate. It contains active ingredient called finasteride, which is used to treat symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men with an enlarged prostate. It works by inhibiting the enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that can contribute to the development of BPH. By reducing DHT levels, Finasteride can help shrink the prostate gland and improve urinary symptoms.
Proscar can lower prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood levels, which is a screening tool for detecting prostate cancer risk in me. Finasteride can be used alone or taken in combination with other medications to reduce symptoms of BPH and may also reduce the need for surgery.
Uses and Dosage
Proscar is typically administered in tablet form and taken by mouth, either with or without food, as directed by a medical professional. It should be taken regularly at the same time each day to maximize its effectiveness and continue using it as prescribed. Stopping treatment with Proscar should only be done under the guidance of a doctor. It can take between 6 to 12 months to see any beneficial effects from treatment with Proscar.
The dosage is the same for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and male pattern hair loss. It can be administered alone or in combination with an alpha-blocker, such as doxazosin. It is recommended to assess response after 12 weeks to 6 months of treatment.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Proscar (Finasteride):
- Abnormal ejaculation
- Dizziness
- Feeling tired
- Impotence
- Inability to have an erection
- Loss of interest in sex
- Low blood pressure when getting up
- Trouble having an orgasm
Serious Side Effects of Proscar (Finasteride):
- Breast lumps
- Breast pain or tenderness
- Difficulty breathing
- Nipple discharge
- Other breast changes
- Severe or ongoing nausea
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
Form and Strength
Proscar (Finasteride) is available in the following forms and strength:
Proscar: Tablet
- 5 mg
Finasteride: Tablet
- 5 mg
Caution
- Follow the advice of a healthcare professional and inform your doctor of any medical conditions or allergies you have before taking any medication.
- Proscar is for use in men only and should not be used by women or children. It may have harmful effects on a developing fetus, so pregnant women should not handle crushed or broken tablets or take this medication.
- Proscar may cause liver toxicities, therefore it should be used with caution in patients with liver dysfunction.
- Proscar may cause sexual side effects in some men, such as decreased sex drive, impotence, decreased volume of ejaculate, and breast tenderness or enlargement.
- Proscar may decrease the levels of PSA (prostate-specific antigen), a protein that can be used to detect prostate cancer. This can make it harder to detect prostate cancer in some cases.
- Proscar may increase the risk of high-grade prostate cancer, although it may also lower the risk of low-grade prostate cancer.
- Proscar may interact with other medications, including some drugs used to treat HIV/AIDS, and may increase the risk of side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How does Proscar work?
Proscar works by preventing the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the body, which is involved in the development of BPH.
How should I take Proscar?
Proscar should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional. It is typically taken once a day with or without food.
Can Proscar lower my risk of prostate cancer?
In some cases, yes. Proscar may lower prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood levels, which is a screening tool for detecting prostate cancer risk in men.
How long does it take for Proscar to work?
It may take several months of treatment with Proscar for symptoms of BPH to improve. Continue taking Proscar as directed by your doctor, even if you do not see immediate improvement in your symptoms.
REVIEWS