(fih-NASS-teer-IDE)
Proscar, Propecia
Class: Androgen hormone inhibitor

 Action Inhibits conversion of testosterone into 5-alpha-dihydrotestosterone, a potent androgen.

 Indications Treatment of symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). unlabeled use(s): Adjuvant monotherapy following radical prostatectomy; prevention of progression of first-stage prostate cancer; treatment of male-pattern baldness, acne, and hirsutism.

 Contraindications Use during pregnancy or lactation and use in children.

 Route/Dosage

ADULTS: PO 5 mg qd.

 Interactions None well documented.

 Lab Test Interferences Decreased prostate-specific antigen levels.

 Adverse Reactions

GU: Impotence; decreased libido; decreased volume of ejaculate.

 Precautions

Pregnancy: Category X. Lactation: Do not use in lactating women. Children: Not recommended for children. Carcinogenesis, mutagenesis: Based on animal studies, may have carcinogenic or mutagenic potential. Duration of therapy: Minimum of 6 mo therapy may be necessary to see effect. Hepatic function impairment: Use with caution. Obstructive uropathy: Carefully monitor patients with large residual urine volume or severely diminished urinary flow.

PATIENT CARE CONSIDERATIONS

 Administration/Storage

  • Do not allow women of childbearing age to handle crushed tablets.
  • Store medication in tightly closed container and protect from light.

 Assessment/Interventions

  • Obtain patient history, including drug history and any known allergies.
  • Document results of liver function tests prior to starting therapy.
  • Carefully monitor I&O in patients with large residual urine volume or diminished urinary flow.
  • Review prostate-specific antigen levels and document any sustained increase.

 Patient/Family Education

  • Inform patient that impotence, decreased libido, or decreased volume of ejaculate may occur.
  • Advise patient that contact with crushed tablet could be hazardous to pregnant females and that exposure also may occur via semen.
  • Explain that partners of patients taking finasteride who are of childbearing age should use a reliable method of contraception. Emphasize that drug may cause abnormalities of external genitalia of male fetus.
  • Point out importance of regular follow-up by physician.

Popularity: 5% [?]


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