Question 1

Is Proscar the same as Flomax?

Accepted Answer

No, Proscar (finasteride) and Flomax (tamsulosin) are not the same, though both are used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which is an enlarged prostate. They work differently: Proscar reduces the production of a hormone that causes prostate growth, while Flomax is an alpha blocker that relaxes the muscles in the prostate and bladder, helping to ease urinary symptoms.

Question 2

How long does it take for Proscar to shrink prostate?

Accepted Answer

Proscar works by stopping the production of a hormone that enlarges the prostate. You might start noticing some improvement shortly after beginning treatment. However, it typically takes up to 6 months for Proscar to fully exert its effects on an enlarged prostate.

Question 3

Does Proscar help you pee?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Proscar can help improve urination. It's often more effective when used together with Cardura (doxazosin), which is another medication that relaxes the muscles around the bladder, making it easier to urinate. This combination can be particularly beneficial for relieving urinary symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate.

Question 4

Does Proscar increase testosterone?

Accepted Answer

Proscar can lead to a temporary increase in free testosterone levels when you first start taking it. However, over time, it doesn't significantly change the overall levels of testosterone in your body. Research has confirmed that Proscar doesn't have a major impact on either total or free testosterone concentrations in the long run.

Question 5

Does Proscar affect blood pressure?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Proscar can affect your blood pressure. It may increase the risk of orthostatic hypotension, which is a drop in blood pressure when you stand up from sitting or lying down. This might make you feel dizzy or faint, especially if Proscar is taken alongside an alpha blocker, another medication commonly used for treating an enlarged prostate.

Question 6

What happens if you stop Proscar?

Accepted Answer

Stopping Proscar, which is commonly used to treat male pattern baldness, allows the levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) to rise again. DHT is a hormone that can shrink hair follicles, so when you stop taking Proscar, you may notice an increase in hair loss as the effects of the medication wear off.

Question 7

Does Proscar cause hair growth?

Accepted Answer

Proscar can help with hair growth on the scalp by treating hair loss, but it won't cure it permanently. While you're using the medication, you may see an improvement in hair density. However, any new hair that grows will likely fall out within a year if you stop taking the medication.

Question 8

What is the best time of day to take Proscar?

Accepted Answer

You should take Proscar at the same time every day, as recommended on your prescription label. It can be taken with or without food. If you find that it upsets your stomach, try taking it with food to ease discomfort. Continue taking it as your healthcare provider has advised, unless they tell you to stop.