Protect your prostate with Finasteride / Proscar

As featured in LA times "Drug recommended to prevent prostate cancer in some older men Finasteride may cut the risk for men over 55 who are considered more likely to get the disease, a medical panel recommends."
February 25th 2009

Finasteride blocks di-hydro-testosterone (DHT), a major cause of age-related prostate problems.

An enzyme known as 5-alpha reductase, acts upon testosterone, converting it to a hormone called di-hydro-testosterone (DHT). It is believed that high levels of DHT are a contributory factor in the enlargement of the male prostate, which can lead to the formation of prostate cancer. It is certainly clear that DHT levels rise as men get older. This condition is known as Benign Prostate Hypertrophy (BPH).

Finasteride belongs to a group of drugs known as 5-alpha reductase inhibitors. By blocking the action of 5-alpha reductase, Finasteride reduces levels of DHT. Consequently, use of Finasteride has been shown to decrease the size of the male prostate. The most common brand name for Finasteride as a prostate treatment is Proscar.

High DHT levels have also been cited as being a contributory factor in the development of male pattern baldness, and the increased growth of body hair. The use of Finasteride on a regular basis has been shown to help reduce male pattern baldness and slow the development of body hair. The most common brand name for this application is Propecia.

Dosage:
Used to decrease the size of the male prostate, doses are often in the region of 5mg daily. Used for alopecia (hair loss), doses are often in the region of 1mg to 2mg daily

Side effects:
Although very uncommon, some men may notice changes in their sex lives, such as impotence or a decreased sex drive. Some men may have a decrease in the amount of semen released during sex. This does not appear to interfere with normal sexual function. In some men, such side effects disappear with time, even if Proscar is continued. In rare cases, some men have reported breast swelling and/or tenderness, or allergic reactions, such as lip swelling and rash. If you experience these or any other unusual symptoms, go and see your doctor promptly.

Caution:
Finasteride is for use by men only. Women should not ingest or handle the tablets, this is because Finasteride can affect the unborn male child. To this end, we would also recommend intercourse with condoms to prevent the passage of Finasteride in sperm, entering the womb etc.

See also:
Finasteride specifically blocks type-II 5-alpha reductase, which is the most common form and hence Finasteride is believed to be approximately 70% affective in its action. There is now also a new 5-alpha reductase inhibitor called Dutasteride, it blocks both Type-I and Type-II 5-alpha reductase and is believed to be about 90% effective.

Note:
DHT levels can be monitored using the hormone test kit.