Proscar (finasteride 5 mg) is a prescription medication specifically formulated for the treatment of symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men. As a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor, it functions by targeting the hormonal pathway responsible for prostate enlargement, offering a non-surgical approach to managing this common condition. This medication is recognized for its ability to improve urinary flow and reduce the risk of acute urinary retention and the need for prostate-related surgery. Its use is supported by extensive clinical research and long-term studies, establishing it as a cornerstone in urological therapeutic management.

Features

• Active ingredient: Finasteride 5 mg
• Drug class: 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor (5-ARI)
• Presentation: Film-coated, pentagonal-shaped tablets
• Standard pack size: 30 tablets
• Requires a prescription
• Not indicated for use in women or children

Benefits

• Significantly reduces prostate volume, alleviating mechanical obstruction of the urethra.
• Improves urinary flow rate and reduces bothersome lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), such as hesitancy, weak stream, and nocturia.
• Decreases the risk of developing acute urinary retention, a painful condition requiring catheterization.
• Lowers the probability of requiring invasive prostate surgery, such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP).
• Provides a long-term, oral management strategy for a chronic condition.

Common use

Proscar is primarily indicated for the management and treatment of symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in adult men. It is used to improve urinary symptoms, reduce the size of an enlarged prostate, and delay the progression of the disease. Treatment is considered a long-term therapy, with maximum symptomatic benefit often achieved after six months or more of continuous use. It is not approved for the prevention of prostate cancer, though it may reduce the overall incidence.

Dosage and direction

The standard dosage for Proscar is one 5 mg tablet administered orally once a day, with or without food. The tablet should be swallowed whole and not crushed or broken, as the active ingredient can be absorbed through the skin. Treatment response should be monitored periodically. A minimum of six months of therapy is generally required to assess whether a beneficial response has been achieved. Dosage adjustments are not typically required for elderly patients or those with renal impairment.

Precautions

• Women who are or may potentially be pregnant must not handle crushed or broken Proscar tablets due to the risk of absorption through the skin and the potential for causing abnormalities of the external genitalia in a male fetus.
• Patients should be informed that a decrease in the amount of ejaculate may occur; this does not appear to interfere with normal sexual function.
• Prior to initiating therapy, a digital rectal examination (DRE) and other evaluations should be performed to rule out prostate cancer, as finasteride can lower PSA levels.
• Patients should be monitored for possible signs of depression.
• A small increased risk of developing a more serious form of prostate cancer (high-grade prostate cancer) has been observed in clinical trials.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to finasteride, any other 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors, or any of the excipients in the formulation.
• Use in women, particularly those who are pregnant or of childbearing potential.
• Use in pediatric patients.

Possible side effects

While not everyone experiences side effects, the following have been reported in clinical studies:

• Common (>1/100): Erectile dysfunction, decreased libido (sex drive), disorders of ejaculation (e.g., decreased ejaculate volume).
• Uncommon (1/100 to 1/1000): Breast enlargement and tenderness (gynecomastia).
• Rare: Allergic reactions, including rash, itching, hives, and swelling of the lips and face.
• Very Rare: Depression, testicular pain, male infertility which may be reversible upon discontinuation.
• Post-Marketing Reports: Palpitations, sexual dysfunction that persists after discontinuation of treatment (post-finasteride syndrome).

Drug interaction

• No specific drug interactions of clinical importance have been identified. However, caution is advised when used concomitantly with drugs that are potent inhibitors of the CYP3A4 enzyme system (e.g., certain antifungal agents like ketoconazole and itraconazole).
• Proscar does not appear to significantly affect the cytochrome P450-linked drug metabolizing enzyme system.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as it is remembered. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Overdose

In the event of a suspected overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment should be instituted. Single doses of finasteride up to 400 mg and multiple doses up to 80 mg/day for three months have been administered without adverse effects. There is no specific antidote for finasteride overdose.

Storage

Store at room temperature (15°C to 30°C). Keep the tablets in their original blister pack or container to protect from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach and sight of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any new treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.

Reviews

“After six months on Proscar, my urinary symptoms have improved dramatically. The frequent nighttime trips to the bathroom have been cut in half, allowing for much better sleep. My flow is stronger and more consistent. I did experience a slight decrease in libido initially, but this has largely subsided. For me, the trade-off in quality of life has been well worth it.” – M.C., 68

“As a urologist, I have prescribed finasteride for two decades. It remains a first-line, effective medical therapy for appropriate patients with moderate to severe BPH. It reliably reduces prostate volume by about 20-25% and significantly improves symptom scores. I always counsel patients on the potential for sexual side effects, but for many, the urological benefits far outweigh these risks.” – Dr. A. Sharma, MD

“I was hesitant to start due to stories about side effects. It took a full 9 months to see the maximum benefit, but my urgency and hesitancy are now greatly reduced. I have not experienced any negative sexual side effects. It’s important for patients to understand that results are not immediate and to have a frank discussion with their doctor about expectations.” – R.L., 61