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Proscar (Finasteride) Buyer and Patient Handbook in South Africa

What is Proscar?

Proscar is a 5 mg oral tablet containing the active ingredient finasteride, classified as a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor used to treat Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) in men. It reduces prostate size, improving urinary flow and decreasing the need for surgery. The product is approved by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) and conforms to international quality standards.

Who Should Use Proscar?

• Men aged 50 years and older experiencing urinary symptoms such as weak stream, frequent nighttime urination, or incomplete bladder emptying.
• Men diagnosed with an enlarged prostate (BPH) confirmed by a physician’s assessment (e.g., digital rectal exam, ultrasound).
• Individuals without a history of liver disease, Prostate Cancer, or hypersensitivity to finasteride.

How Does It Work?

Finasteride blocks the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT drives prostate cell growth; by lowering DHT levels, the drug gradually shrinks prostate tissue. Think of it as turning down the volume on a loudspeaker: the signal (DHT) stays present but becomes quieter, easing pressure on the urethra.

Safety note: Finasteride is not associated with abuse potential, but it should be used only as directed because long-term suppression of DHT can affect hormone balance.

Why Choose Proscar?

Proscar offers a clinically proven dose (5 mg) that matches the most effective regimen for BPH. As a branded product, it guarantees consistent tablet strength and quality control across batches. Generic finasteride tablets are available at a lower price and are bioequivalent, providing a cost-saving alternative for patients who prefer them.

Dosage, Administration, Lifestyle and Dietary Recommendations

Recommended Dosage

• 5 mg once daily taken at the same time each day.

How to Take

• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
• It can be taken with or without food; consistency is more important than timing relative to meals.

Missed Dose

• If you remember within 12 hours, take the missed tablet.
• If more than 12 hours have passed, skip it and resume the regular schedule. Do not double-dose.

Overdose

• In the unlikely event of an overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact the Poisons Information Centre (080 111 222).

Special Populations

Lifestyle & Diet

• Avoid excessive alcohol, which can worsen urinary symptoms.
• Grapefruit juice does not interact with finasteride, but maintain a balanced diet to support overall prostate health.

Precautions and Warnings

• Prostate Cancer: Finasteride can mask PSA (prostate-specific antigen) levels; regular PSA testing should account for a 50 % reduction.
• Sexual Function: Some men experience decreased libido or erectile difficulty; report persistent changes to a healthcare professional.
• Pregnancy: Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant must not handle crushed or broken tablets, as finasteride is teratogenic to a male fetus.

Drug Interactions

Potential Side Effects

Common Side Effects

• Decreased libido
• Reduced ejaculate volume
• Mild dizziness

Less Common Side Effects

• Breast tenderness or enlargement
• Rash or itching
• Mood changes (e.g., Depression)

Serious Side Effects

• Severe allergic reaction (swelling, difficulty breathing) - seek emergency care
• Persistent erection lasting > 4 hours (priapism) - immediate medical attention
• Sudden loss of urinary control - consult a clinician

Who Should Avoid This Medication?

• Men with known hypersensitivity to finasteride or any tablet excipients.
• Patients with a confirmed diagnosis of prostate Cancer.
• Women (including pregnant or breastfeeding) - finasteride is male-specific.

Storage Instructions

• Keep tablets in their original container, tightly closed.
• Store at 15 °C-30 °C (room temperature), away from moisture and direct sunlight.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Proscar Alternatives

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for Proscar to improve urinary symptoms?

Improvement is usually noticeable after 3-6 months of continuous daily use.

Can I drink coffee while taking Proscar?

Yes, moderate coffee intake does not affect finasteride’s efficacy.

Is it safe to combine Proscar with over-the-counter pain relievers?

Acetaminophen is generally safe; avoid NSAIDs if you have kidney issues unless advised by a clinician.

My PSA test returned low; does Proscar affect this result?

Finasteride can reduce PSA levels by about 50 %; your doctor should adjust the interpretation accordingly.

What should I do if I experience a sudden loss of libido?

Discuss the symptom with a healthcare professional; dose adjustment or switching to an alternative therapy may be considered.

Can Proscar be used to treat male pattern hair loss?

Finasteride at a 1 mg dose is approved for hair loss; Proscar’s 5 mg dose is intended for BPH and is not recommended for this purpose.

Is it necessary to have regular blood tests while on Proscar?

Routine monitoring of liver function and PSA is advisable, especially during the first year of therapy.

How should I store Proscar when traveling abroad?

Carry the medication in its original packaging, keep it in a temperature-controlled bag, and avoid exposure to extreme heat or cold.

Glossary

• 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor: A drug that blocks the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone, reducing prostate growth.
• Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH): Non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that can cause urinary obstruction.
• Prostate-specific antigen (PSA): A blood protein used to screen for prostate health; levels can be altered by finasteride.

Disclaimer

The information provided herein is for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Off-label uses are not endorsed; always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. This handbook reflects the services offered through our online pharmacy platform in South Africa, but the ultimate responsibility for safe medication use rests with the patient.