Generic Proscar (Finasteride)

Introduction

Proscar (finasteride 5 mg) is a prescription-only oral medication indicated for the treatment of men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It belongs to the 5-α-reductase inhibitor class and works by reducing conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). The tablet is supplied as a 5 mg pill and is manufactured by several pharmaceutical companies worldwide. In addition to its approved use for BPH, finasteride has been investigated for other conditions, some of which are used off-label under strict medical supervision.

What is Proscar?

Proscar is the generic version of well-known medications, containing the active compound Finasteride. Our online pharmacy provides this generic alternative as a cost-effective treatment option. Finasteride was first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1992 for the treatment of BPH and later for androgenetic alopecia at a lower dose ( marketed under brand names such as Propecia and Finpecia). The 5 mg formulation is specifically marketed for prostate enlargement. Proscar is manufactured by several licensed producers; the tablets are round, film-coated, and typically white to off-white in color.

How Proscar Works

Finasteride selectively inhibits type II 5-α-reductase, the enzyme responsible for converting testosterone into the more potent androgen dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT drives prostate cell proliferation and contributes to the development of BPH. By lowering DHT levels in the prostate (by up to 70 % after several weeks of therapy), finasteride reduces gland volume, improves urinary flow, and decreases the risk of acute urinary retention.

• Onset of therapeutic effect*: measurable reductions in prostate size occur after 3-6 months; symptomatic relief may be noticed earlier.
• Duration*: the drug’s half-life is approximately 5-6 hours, but its biological effect persists because DHT levels remain suppressed as long as the medication is taken daily.
• Clearance*: finasteride is metabolized primarily by cytochrome P450 3A4 and eliminated in the feces and urine.

Conditions Treated with Proscar

• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) - The only FDA-approved indication for the 5 mg dose. Finasteride alleviates lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), reduces prostate volume, and lowers the incidence of acute urinary retention and the need for surgical intervention. Clinical trials (e.g., the FINASTRIDE BPH Study Group, 1998) demonstrated a mean symptom score improvement of 30 % versus placebo.

Proscar is not approved for treating hair loss, prostate cancer, or any hormonal disorder. Use for those conditions requires the 1 mg formulation or other agents.

Off-Label and Investigational Uses of Proscar

• Androgenetic Alopecia in Men - Although the 1 mg tablet (Propecia) holds the official label, some clinicians prescribe the 5 mg dose off-label for extensive hair loss. Studies show comparable efficacy at higher doses, but the risk-benefit ratio has not been formally evaluated for the 5 mg strength.
• Male Pattern Alopecia in Combination Therapy - Finasteride is sometimes combined with topical minoxidil; evidence suggests additive effects on hair regrowth. This combination remains off-label for the 5 mg tablet.
• Preventive Therapy for Prostate Cancer - Large clinical trials (e.g., the Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial) indicated that finasteride reduced overall prostate cancer incidence but was associated with a higher proportion of high-grade tumors. Regulatory agencies have not approved finasteride for chemoprevention; its use for this purpose must be conducted only under specialist supervision.
• Hormone-Sensitive Conditions in Transgender Women - Finasteride may be added to anti-androgen regimens to further lower DHT. Evidence is limited and off-label; dosing must be individualized by an endocrinologist.

All off-label applications are unsupported by formal regulatory approval. Patients should discuss any such use with a qualified healthcare provider before initiating therapy.

Is Proscar the Right Medication for You?

Proscar is appropriate for adult men (≥18 years) diagnosed with symptomatic BPH confirmed by digital rectal examination, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, or imaging. Ideal candidates exhibit:

• Moderate to severe LUTS (e.g., urgency, nocturia, weak stream)
• Prostate volume ≥30 g on ultrasound or MRI
• No contraindications such as hypersensitivity to finasteride or concurrent use of strong 5-α-reductase inhibitors (e.g., dutasteride).

Patients with a history of prostate cancer, liver disease, or who are pregnant or may become pregnant must avoid handling crushed tablets, as finasteride can be absorbed transdermally and cause fetal abnormalities.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Decreased libido
• Erectile dysfunction
• Ejaculatory disorders (reduced volume, anejaculation)
• Breast tenderness or enlargement

These events occur in up to 5 % of users and are often reversible after discontinuation.

Rare

• Testicular pain or swelling
• Rash, pruritus, or urticaria
• Depressive symptoms or mood alterations

Reported in less than 1 % of patients; monitoring is advised if they persist.

Serious

• Male breast cancer - Very rare but documented; any new breast mass warrants immediate evaluation.
• Allergic anaphylaxis - Rapid onset of difficulty breathing, swelling, or rash; requires emergency treatment.

If any serious reaction occurs, the medication must be stopped and medical care sought without delay.

Drug-Drug Interactions

• CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin) may increase finasteride plasma concentrations; dose adjustment is not typically required but clinical vigilance is recommended.
• CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine) can lower finasteride levels, potentially reducing efficacy.
• Anticoagulants - No direct interaction, but patients on warfarin should have INR monitored, as hormonal changes may affect coagulation parameters.

Drug-Food Interactions

• No significant food effect; tablets can be taken with or without meals.
• Alcohol does not alter finasteride metabolism but may exacerbate urinary symptoms; patients are advised to drink responsibly.

Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

• Standard dosing: One 5 mg tablet taken orally once daily, preferably at the same time each day.
• Missed dose: If a dose is forgotten within 12 hours, take it as soon as remembered. If it is close to the next scheduled dose, skip the missed tablet and resume the regular schedule. Do not double-dose.
• Overdose: Acute overdose of finasteride is unlikely to be life-threatening. Symptoms may include dizziness, headache, or gastrointestinal upset. Seek medical attention promptly; treatment is symptomatic and supportive.

Practical precautions:

• Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew.
• No restriction on alcohol consumption, but excessive intake may worsen BPH symptoms.
• Avoid operating heavy machinery if you experience dizziness or significant sexual side effects.

FAQ

• Can I travel internationally with Proscar? • Yes, the tablet can be carried in your personal luggage. Keep it in the original container with the label, and declare it if required by the destination country’s customs regulations.

• What does a Proscar tablet look like? • The tablet is round, film-coated, and typically white to off-white. Imprints may vary by manufacturer but often include “5 MG” and a brand-specific code.

• Are there any inactive ingredients I should be aware of? • Common excipients include lactose monohydrate, microcrystalline cellulose, and magnesium stearate. Patients with severe lactose intolerance should verify the formulation with the supplier.

• Will Proscar affect urine drug screens? • Finasteride is not a controlled substance and does not cause a positive result on standard drug-testing panels.

• Is it safe to handle the tablets if I am pregnant? • Pregnant women should avoid direct contact with crushed or broken tablets, as finasteride can be absorbed through the skin and may cause fetal abnormalities. Wearing gloves is recommended when handling medication.

• Can Proscar be used to lower PSA levels for cancer screening? • Finasteride reduces serum PSA by approximately 50 %. Clinicians adjust PSA readings by doubling the measured value to interpret cancer risk accurately.

• How does the 5 mg dose differ from the 1 mg dose marketed for hair loss? • Both doses contain the same active molecule, but the 5 mg tablet is formulated for prostate tissue targeting, whereas the 1 mg tablet is intended for scalp DHT reduction. Pharmacokinetic profiles are similar; efficacy and safety data are dose-specific.

• What is the typical cost difference between brand-name and generic finasteride? • Generic finasteride (Proscar) is usually 40-70 % less expensive than branded equivalents, reflecting lower manufacturing and marketing expenses. Prices vary by region and supplier.

• Are there any legal restrictions on importing Proscar for personal use? • Importation for personal use is permitted in many jurisdictions when the medication is prescribed for a legitimate medical condition and the quantity does not exceed a 90-day supply. Check local regulations before ordering.

• Does finasteride interact with hormonal contraceptives? • No clinically significant interaction has been documented between finasteride and estrogen- or progestin-based contraceptives.

Glossary

5-α-Reductase Inhibitor

A class of drugs that block the enzyme responsible for converting testosterone into the more potent androgen dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that can cause urinary symptoms such as weak stream, urgency, and nocturia.

Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA)

A protein produced by prostate cells; elevated levels in blood may indicate prostate disease, including BPH or cancer.

Off-Label Use

Prescription of a medication for an indication, dose, or patient population that has not been approved by regulatory authorities.

Buying Proscar from Our Online Pharmacy

Proscar can be obtained conveniently from our online pharmacy. We source the generic finasteride tablets from licensed, audited manufacturers, ensuring that each batch meets stringent quality standards equivalent to the original brand. By operating as a pharmacy broker service, we negotiate directly with overseas suppliers, which allows us to offer prices close to the manufacturer’s cost while maintaining a discreet delivery process.

Key benefits include:

• Affordable pricing - Generic cost-savings without compromising efficacy.
• Verified quality - Only products with proven purity and potency are stocked.
• Discreet, reliable shipping - Packages are unmarked, securely packed, and typically arrive within 7 days for express service or 2-3 weeks for standard airmail.
• Privacy-focused service - Personal data is encrypted, and no identifying information appears on the delivery.

For patients who encounter limited access through local pharmacies or insurance formularies, our platform provides a safe, cost-effective alternative to obtain the medication they need.

Disclaimer

The information presented about Proscar is intended for general educational purposes and does not replace individualized medical advice. Treatment decisions, including any off-label applications, should be made only under the direct supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Readers are assumed to be competent adults capable of making informed health choices. Our online pharmacy supplies Proscar to individuals who may face restricted availability through conventional channels or who seek affordable generic options. Always consult a qualified clinician before initiating, modifying, or discontinuing any medication.