Proscar (finasteride): What it treats and what to watch for

Did you know Proscar is just a brand name for finasteride and has been used for decades to shrink an enlarged prostate? If you're looking through this tag, you probably want clear, practical facts — not medical fluff. Below you’ll find what Proscar does, how people take it, common side effects, safety tips, and sensible alternatives.

How to use Proscar and what to expect

Proscar is usually prescribed at 5 mg once daily for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It lowers a hormone (DHT) that shrinks prostate tissue over months. Expect symptom improvement in 3 to 6 months; full benefit can take up to a year. For male pattern hair loss, a lower dose of finasteride (1 mg, sold as Propecia) is used — Proscar’s dose is higher and intended for BPH.

Take it the same time every day with or without food. Missing a dose won’t cause immediate problems, but consistent use matters. If you stop the drug, benefits fade over months as DHT levels return to previous levels.

Before starting, tell your doctor if you have liver problems or are taking other meds. Your doctor may check PSA (prostate-specific antigen) before and during treatment, because finasteride changes PSA levels and can affect prostate cancer screening.

Side effects, risks and practical alternatives

Common side effects are sexual: decreased libido, erectile problems, or reduced ejaculate volume. Most men don’t have long-term issues, but a small number report persistent sexual problems after stopping—discuss this risk with your prescriber. Other complaints can include breast tenderness or mood changes. Always report new breast lumps or persistent symptoms to a doctor.

Pregnant women should avoid handling crushed or broken tablets — finasteride can harm a male fetus. Keep medication out of reach of children.

Looking for alternatives? Dutasteride works similarly and may be stronger for some men, but it carries similar risks. For mild BPH, alpha-blockers (like tamsulosin) can relieve symptoms faster, though they don’t shrink the prostate. Some men try saw palmetto or lifestyle fixes (fluid timing, caffeine reduction, pelvic exercises) — these help some people but lack the consistent results seen with prescription drugs.

Buying online? Use licensed pharmacies and a valid prescription. Avoid suspicious discount sites that skip prescriptions — they may sell incorrect or counterfeit medicines. If price is a concern, ask your doctor about generics (finasteride) or discount programs.

If you’re unsure whether Proscar is right for you, ask a clinician about expected benefits, how treatment will be monitored, and when to expect changes. That short conversation will save you time and help you avoid surprises.