Drug Name: Proscar
Brand Names: Propecia, Proscar
Generic Name: finasteride (fih NAH steh ride)
Uses: Proscar is used for the treatment of BPH or benign prostatic hyperplasia. This is a condition that characterizes enlarged prostate in men. It is also used to treat hair loss that is due to male pattern baldness. Proscar, an androgen hormone inhibitor, works by preventing the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone or DHT in the body.
How to use: Proscar can be taken with or without food. It should be taken with a full glass of water and should be taken regularly and at the same time everyday to reach the best results. The recommended dose is at 5mg a day. The medicine can be crushed if needed.
Side Effects: Proscar can cause side effects such as change in sexual function such as decreased sex drive, decreased volume of ejaculate or impotence and breast tenderness or enlargement. These are the less serious side effects. Serious side effects involve difficulty breathing, closing of the throat and swelling of the lips, tongue, face or hives. These conditions need immediate medical attention.
Precautions: You may need a lower dosage or may not be allowed at all to take the medication if you have a liver disease. You need to inform your doctor if you have this condition before proceeding to the treatment. Proscar is only used by men and should not be used by women or children. If you are pregnant avoid handling this medication especially crushed or broken tablets as it could be absorbed through the skin. It may take 6 to 12 months for the Proscar to work. Do not stop taking the medicine unless directed by your doctor. Ask your doctor if there are any restrictions on food, beverages or activities during treatment. Unless specified, there usually are no restrictions.
Drug Interaction: Prescription or non-prescription medicines may interact with Proscar. It is important to notify your doctor if you are taking any other medication. These also include vitamins, minerals and herbal products.
Overdose: If overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical attention.
Notes: Blood tests or other forms of monitoring may be conducted during treatment. PSA or prostate-specific antigen is one of these. This is a test that help detects prostate cancer.
Missed Dose: Take the missed dose as soon as remembered. If it is however nearly time for the next one, just skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never double up your doses.
Important Note: If you are pregnant and have handled a broken tablet, contact your doctor right away. This could be absorbed through the skin and may cause birth defects in an infant.
Storage: Prosac should be stored at controlled room temperature. Keep Prosac away from excess moisture and heat. It should not be stored inside the bathroom. It should also be kept in a tightly closed container and preferably in the container it came with.
For additional Proscar information:
Drugs.com’s information on Proscar
More details provided on Pharmacy Wanted with list of drugs and prices also given.
