Common uses

Finasteride is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH, enlargement of the prostate gland). Finasteride improves symptoms of BPH such as frequent and difficult urination and may reduce the chance of acute urinary retention (suddenly being unable to pass urine). It also may decrease the chance of needing prostate surgery. Finasteride is in a class of medications called 5-alpha reductase inhibitors. It works by blocking the body's production of a male hormone that causes the prostate to enlarge.

Before using

Before taking Proscar, tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this medication, or to a similar medicine called dutasteride (Avodart). Also tell your doctor if you have:
• liver disease, or abnormal liver enzyme tests;
• prostate cancer;
• a bladder muscle disorder;
• stricture of your urethra; or
• if you are unable to urinate.
Proscar should never be taken by a woman or a child. Proscar 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, this medication can cause birth defects if a woman is exposed to it during pregnancy. Proscar tablets should not be handled by a woman who is pregnant or who may become pregnant. 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.

Directions

Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start taking finasteride and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions regarding the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth, with or without food, usually once a day, or as directed by your doctor.
If the tablet is crushed or broken, it should not be handled by a woman who is pregnant or by a woman who may become pregnant (see also Precautions section).
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
It may take 6-12 months to notice a benefit.
Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

Cautions

Proscar is not indicated for use in pediatric patients or women. Women should not handle crushed or broken Proscar tablets when they are pregnant or may potentially be pregnant because of the possibility of absorption of finasteride and the subsequent potential risk to a male fetus. Proscar tablets are coated and will prevent contact with the active ingredient during normal handling, provided that the tablets have not been broken or crushed.

Possible side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. 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.
Less serious side effects may include:
• feeling like you might pass out;
• swelling in your hands or feet;
• pain in the testicles;
• impotence, loss of interest in sex, or trouble having an orgasm;
• abnormal ejaculation;
• swelling or tenderness in your breasts;
• dizziness, weakness;
• headache;
• runny nose; or
• skin rash.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.

If you take too much

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. An overdose of Proscar is not expected to produce life-threatening symptoms.

Additional information

Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Before having any laboratory test, tell your doctor and the laboratory personnel that you are taking finasteride.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.

Drug interactions

No drug interactions of clinical importance have been identified. Finasteride does not appear to affect the cytochrome P450-linked drug metabolizing enzyme system. Compounds that have been tested in man have included antipyrine, digoxin, propranolol, theophylline, and warfarin and no clinically meaningful interactions were found.