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Proscar |
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What is Proscar and why is it prescribed? Proscar is prescribed to help shrink an enlarged prostate. The prostate, a chestnut-shaped gland present in males, produces a liquid that forms part of the semen. This gland completely encloses the upper part of the urethra, the tube through which urine flows out of the bladder. Many men over age 50 suffer from a benign enlargement of the prostate. The enlarged gland squeezes the urethra, obstructing the normal flow of urine. Resulting problems may include difficulty in starting urination, weak flow of urine, and the need to urinate urgently or frequently. Sometimes surgical removal of the prostate is necessary. By shrinking the enlarged prostate, Proscar may alleviate the various associated urinary problems, making surgery unnecessary. Some doctors are also prescribing Proscar for baldness and as a preventive measure against prostate cancer. Different men have different responses to Proscar. You may experience early relief from your urinary problems. You may need to take the drug for 6 months or even a year before noticing any improvement. Or you may find that, even after a year of treatment, Proscar simply has not helped you. How should you take Proscar? Follow your doctors directions for taking Proscar. You may take Proscar either with a meal or between meals. If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take two doses at the same time. Store Proscar at room temperature in a tightly closed container. Protect Proscar from light. Are there any Proscar side effects? Proscar side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Proscar side effects may include decreased amount of semen per ejaculation, decreased sex drive, and impotence. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Proscar? If Proscar is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. No significant drug interactions have been reported. Are there any special warnings about Proscar? Benign enlargement of the prostate is not the only condition that can cause male urinary inefficiency and discomfort. Other possibilities include infection, obstruction, cancer of the prostate, and bladder disorders. Before prescribing Proscar, your doctor will want to do various tests to determine the cause of your urinary problems. Even if Proscar does relieve your urinary symptoms, periodic checkups are necessary to test for possible development of cancer of the prostate. Proscar is not an effective treatment for prostate cancer. Check the patient information that comes in the Proscar package for new information every time you renew your prescription. |
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