Proscar (Finasteride)

What is Proscar?

Proscar (finasteride) is a synthetic 4-azasteroid compound. It inhibits an intracellular enzyme called steroid Type II 5(alpha)-reductase. This converts androgen testosterone into 5(alpha)-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and helps in the treatment of symptomatic BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia).

What is Proscar used for?

Proscar is used to treat symptoms of BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia) in men with an enlarged prostate. Proscar reduces the risk of acute urinary retention and also reduces the need for surgery including transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) and prostatectomy.

How does Proscar work?

Proscar works by blocking the conversion of testosterone into DHT (dihydrotestosterone). This helps in lowering the amount of DHT in the body. It can also treat enlarged prostate as Proscar reduces DHT levels and DHT is important for enlargement of the prostate. In most cases, Proscar can shrink the prostate and thereby help in relieving their enlarged prostate symptoms.

How to use Proscar

Proscar should be taken in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Taking Proscar for longer periods or in larger amounts than recommended can cause health problems. Proscar is usually taken with a full glass of water. It can be taken with or without food.

Get your blood tested on a regular basis while using Proscar. You will also be required to get your prostate specific antigen (PSA) tested to check for prostate cancer.

Proscar warnings and precautions

After taking the Proscar dose, do not get up too fast from a lying or sitting position as you may feel dizzy and you may fall. Adhere to your doctor’s instructions regarding restrictions on food, or activity while using Proscar.

Proscar should never be handled or taken by women or children. Pregnant women must not handle Proscar tablets as Proscar can cause birth defects.

Before taking Proscar, inform your doctor if you have had an allergic reaction to dutasteride (Avodart) or Proscar, in the past. Also inform him if you have prostate cancer, liver disease, or abnormal liver enzyme tests, stricture of your urethra, or a bladder muscle disorder.

What do I do if I have missed a Proscar dose?

If you have missed your Proscar dose you can take the missed dose as soon as you remember but do not take it if it is time for your next dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Proscar overdose?

An overdose of Proscar does not produce serious consequences. However, if you have taken a Proscar overdose you should seek medical attention.

Proscar interactions

No drug interactions have been identified as yet.

Proscar side effects

Proscar side effects include breathing difficulty; swelling of face, tongue, lips or throat; and other allergic reactions. You may even get breast lumps, nipple discharge, pain, or other breast changes. These may be signs of male breast cancer. If you get any of these side effects after using Proscar, contact your doctor.

Headache, runny nose, skin rash, dizziness, weakness, feeling like you might lose your consciousness, swelling in breast, abnormal ejaculation, pain in the testicles, loss of interest in sex, impotence, or trouble having an orgasm are also side effects from Proscar.