Proscar

Medically Reviewed by Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Jul 06, 2022

Common Questions


Common Questions about Proscar (finasteride)


Are Proscar and Propecia the same?

Both Proscar and Propecia contain the same active ingredient, finasteride. Proscar is used to treat benign enlargement of the prostate gland in adult men. Propecia is used to treat male pattern hair loss. Proscar contains 5 mg finasteride, and Propecia contains 1 mg finasteride. Therefore, you cannot substitute one for the other. 



Does Proscar shrink the prostate?

Yes, Proscar shrinks an enlarged prostate gland in adult men. It can be used in combination with other treatments to provide relief from symptoms of BPH and may help avoid surgery.



How long does it take Proscar to work?

Your symptoms may start to improve in a few weeks, but it can take up to 6 months to get the full benefits of Proscar. This is because the medication works slowly to reduce the size of the prostate and provide relief of symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate gland. 



What happens when you stop taking Proscar?

Proscar works only as long as you take the medication. If you stop taking it, the prostate gland will grow again, and your symptoms may come back or worsen. Do not stop taking Proscar without talking to your doctor first, even if you feel well. 



Does Proscar cause erectile dysfunction?

Proscar can cause sexual side effects, including erectile dysfunction (impotence), problems with ejaculation, and low sex drive. These side effects usually get better over time. However, they can persist even after stopping the medication.  



Can I take Viagra with Proscar?

Yes, you can take Proscar with Viagra, Cialis, and other oral medications to treat erectile dysfunction 



What is the price of Proscar without insurance?

Without insurance, Proscar can be as high as $135.20. (generic), but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $10.86 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not. 



What is the price of Proscar with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on Proscar—Copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for Proscar. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medication, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.