Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Proscar (Finasteride).
Breast Cancer: Male breast cancer has been reported in a small number of people taking Proscar (Finasteride). It is not known with certainty whether Proscar (Finasteride) can cause breast cancer, but this possibility cannot be ruled out at this time. If you notice any changes in your breasts, such as breast enlargement, pain, tenderness, lumps, or nipple discharge, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Laboratory tests: Proscar (Finasteride) may decrease PSA levels (a substance normally produced and used to evaluate Prostate Cancer) and should be taken into account when evaluating PSA levels.
Liver function: Liver disease or reduced liver function may cause Proscar (Finasteride) to build up in the body, causing side effects. If you have liver problems, discuss with your doctor how Proscar (Finasteride) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Proscar (Finasteride), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Long-term use: The effects of using Proscar (Finasteride) for the long term (i.e., more than 10 years) have not been established.
Prostate cancer: Proscar (Finasteride) (for BPH) may be linked with an increased risk of developing a rare type of cancer called high-grade prostate cancer. The risk of this cancer while taking Proscar (Finasteride) is still considered very small. Note that Proscar (Finasteride) (for BPH) is not approved to treat prostate cancer. If you have any concerns about Proscar (Finasteride), talk to your health care provider.
Surgery: People who are candidates for immediate prostate surgery should not take Proscar (Finasteride).
Pregnancy and birth defects: When absorbed into the system of a pregnant woman, Proscar (Finasteride) may cause abnormalities of the genitals in a male baby. Crushed or broken Proscar (Finasteride) tablets should not be handled by women who are or may become pregnant because Proscar (Finasteride) may be absorbed into their system through the skin.
Children: Proscar (Finasteride) should not be used by children.