|  | Family Health | Mens Health

Known Side Effects of Proscar

Proscar is a brand name for the medication finasteride, prescribed to shrink the prostate gland in men with the condition benign prostatic hyperplasia. This reduces urinary blockage. Side effects usually are mild and temporary.

  1. Most Common Effects

    • In clinical studies with Proscar, as detailed by eMedTV, the most common side effect was erectile dysfunction, experienced by up to 18.5 percent of men in some studies. Additional common side effects included decreased sex drive and abnormal ejaculation, such as decreased amount.

    Breast Changes

    • Breast enlargement occurred in up to 2 percent of men in some of these studies. More serious breast changes are rare and should be reported to a doctor, such as pain, lumps or nipple discharge.

    Other Side Effects

    • Other side effects associated with Proscar include dizziness, headaches, lightheadedness, weakness, runny nose, swelling of the hands or feet, and testicle pain.

    Allergic Reaction

    • Rarely, people experience an allergic reaction to Proscar. Signs are rash or hives, itching, dizziness, swelling and difficulty breathing.

    Concerns for Women

    • Some doctors prescribe Proscar for off-label (not approved by the FDA) purposes, mainly to treat symptoms in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Proscar can cause birth defects in male genitals, so women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not use or even handle this drug, as it can be absorbed through skin.

Mens Health - Related Articles