Proscar (Finasteride) belongs to a group of medications known as 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors. Finasteride is used to treat symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men with an enlarged prostate. Finasteride can be used alone or in combination with another medication called doxazosin (an alpha blocker). These medications may be taken together to reduce the progress of the BPH symptoms. Finasteride works by decreasing the amount of a natural body hormone (DHT) that causes growth of the prostate. It may take more than six months or more to see the full effects of finasteride. This medication reduces the likelihood of prostate surgery for men with BPH. Finasteride must be taken on a regular basis to be effective and it is stopped, the prostate will start to grow again. The recommended dose is finasteride 5mg once daily.
In a study, on the efficacy and safety of 2 years' treatment of moderate benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) with finasteride by JC Nickel, Y Fradet, RC Boake (Nov 1, 1996). Two thirds of the patients treated with finasteride in the study improved clinically, and the beneficial effects persisted for the full 2 years of the study.
Manufacturer Information
We currently have the brand from Turkey manufactured by Merck and the generic comes from UK and Canada manufactured by Aurobingdo also called as Auro-Finasteride. Proscar is available in tablet form and only strengths of 5 mg.
Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome.
• Abnormal ejaculation;
• Dizziness, weakness;
• Feeling like you might pass out;
• Headache;
• Impotence, loss of interest in sex, or trouble having an orgasm;
• Runny nose;
• Skin rash;
• Swelling in your hands or feet;
• Swelling or tenderness in your breasts
Call your doctor at once if you notice any breast lumps, pain, nipple discharge, or other breast changes. These may be signs of male breast cancer. The sexual side effects of finasteride (decreased libido, trouble having an erection, ejaculation problems) may continue after you stop taking this medication.
Before taking Proscar, inform you doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to finasteride, or Avodart (dutasteride). Proscar should never be taken by a woman or a child. Finasteride can be absorbed through the skin, and women or children should not be permitted to handle Proscar tablets. Although Proscar is not for use by women, it can cause birth defects if a woman is exposed to it during pregnancy. If a woman accidentally comes into contact with this medication from a broken or crushed tablet, wash the area with soap and water right away.
What is the difference between Proscar and Tamsulosin?
Proscar and Flomax are both used to help with BPH, such as a weak urine stream. Proscar works by reducing the size of the prostate, which relieves pressure on the urethra. Tamsulosin works by relaxing muscles in the prostate and bladder, which improves urine flow.
How long does it take for Proscar to start working?
For BPH, it may take up to six months to see the full effects of this medication. For male pattern baldness, it may take at least four to six months of daily use before you notice an improvement in your hair loss.
Does prostate start to grow if I stop taking finasteride?
Proscar is not a cure for BPH. The effect on the prostate will only last as long as the medication is used. If you stop taking Proscar, the prostate begins to grow again within a few months.