Proscar 5mg (Finasteride) Tablet

Proscar 5mg is a prescription medication containing finasteride, a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor. It’s primarily used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also known as an enlarged prostate. This 5mg formulation is specifically designed for BPH treatment and is not to be confused with lower-dose finasteride used for hair loss.

Uses

Proscar 5mg is mainly used to treat symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men with an enlarged prostate. It helps to shrink the prostate, improve urinary flow, and reduce the need for prostate surgery. In some cases, it may be used in combination with other medications to manage BPH symptoms more effectively.

Benefits

• Reduces prostate size in men with BPH
• Improves urinary flow and decreases urinary retention
• May reduce the need for prostate surgery
• Can alleviate symptoms such as frequent urination
• May lower the risk of acute urinary retention
• Provides long-term management of BPH symptoms

How It Works

Finasteride works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the prostate gland. By reducing DHT levels, Proscar helps shrink the enlarged prostate and alleviate associated urinary symptoms.

Dosage

The typical dosage is one 5mg tablet taken orally once daily, with or without food. It may take up to 6 months of daily use to see the full effect of Proscar. Always take this medication exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and decreased ejaculate volume. These side effects often improve over time. Serious side effects are rare but can include breast lumps or tenderness, and allergic reactions.

Warning

Proscar 5mg is for use in men only. Women who are or may become pregnant should not handle crushed or broken Proscar tablets due to potential harm to a male fetus. Men taking Proscar should not donate blood until at least 6 months after their final dose.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Proscar is not for use in women. Pregnant women or women who may become pregnant should not handle crushed or broken Proscar tablets. It’s unknown if finasteride passes into breast milk.

Interaction

• May interact with certain prostate cancer screening tests (PSA levels)
• Limited interactions with other medications, but always inform your doctor of all medicines you’re taking

Important Information

Take this medication exactly as prescribed. It may take several months to see improvement in symptoms. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better. Regular check-ups and prostate exams are important while taking Proscar. This medication may affect PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test results; inform any doctor who treats you that you’re taking this medication. If you experience any breast changes such as lumps, pain, or nipple discharge, contact your doctor immediately.