What is Proscar 5mg?
Proscar 5mg is a brand of finasteride, a medicine used primarily to treat men with an enlarged prostate, a condition known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). It belongs to a group of medicines called 5-alpha reductase inhibitors.
Proscar works by lowering the levels of a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the prostate gland. When DHT levels are reduced, the prostate gland shrinks, which helps improve urinary flow and reduce the symptoms of BPH.
Uses of Proscar 5mg
Proscar is prescribed for:
- Reducing the size of an enlarged prostate.
- Improving urinary flow and other symptoms associated with BPH (e.g., frequent urination, weak stream).
- Reducing the risk of sudden inability to pass urine (acute urinary retention).
- Reducing the need for surgery related to an enlarged prostate.
How to use Proscar 5mg
The typical dosage is one 5mg tablet daily, taken with or without food. It is important to take the tablet at the same time each day for the best results. You should follow the specific instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist.
Important Safety Information
- Not for Women or Children: Proscar is strictly for men. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not handle crushed or broken Proscar tablets because the active ingredient can be absorbed through the skin and may cause birth defects in male babies.
- Consistency: It may take 6 months or longer to see the full effect of the medication. Do not stop taking it without consulting your doctor.
Possible Side Effects
Like all medicines, Proscar can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Common side effects may include:
- Decreased libido (sex drive).
- Difficulty achieving an erection.
- Decrease in the amount of semen released during sex.
If you notice any lumps or pain in the breast area, contact your doctor immediately.