Alpha 5 reductase inhibitor Flashcards
1
Q
What is the generic and brand name of an alpha 5 reductase inhibitor?
A
• Finasteride (Proscar)
2
Q
What is the method of action of finesteride?
A
- ↓ size of the prostate gland
- 5α-reductase is an intracellular enzyme which converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (activated)
- Testosterone is the stimuli for prostate growth therefore inhibiting the enzyme inhibits prostate growth
3
Q
What are the indications for finasteride?
A
• 2nd line for BPH
4
Q
What are the contraindications of finasteride?
A
• Pregnancy (inc. through semen during intercourse) – can lead to abnormal development of external genitalia in male foetus
5
Q
What are the side effects of finasteride?
A
- Impotence
- ↓ libido
- Breast tenderness
- Breast enlargement/gynecomastia
- Hair growth
- Breast cancer
6
Q
What organ eliminates finasteride?
A
Kidney
7
Q
What information should a patient taking finasteride be told?
A
• Takes several months to work
