Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

How long does Proscar (finasteride) take to show effectiveness for benign prostatic hypertrophy?

1. Immediately

2. 2-3 months

3. Up to 6 months

4. 1 year

The correct answer is: Up to 6 months

Proscar (finasteride) is an alpha-5 reductase inhibitor that is commonly used to treat benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH). Its mechanism of action involves the inhibition of the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is a key factor in prostatic growth. The time frame for observing the benefits of Proscar in patients with BPH is typically around 6 months. This duration allows sufficient time for the drug to effectively lower the levels of DHT and lead to a reduction in prostatic size and improvement in urinary symptoms. Although some patients may notice improvements within the first few months of treatment, full therapeutic effects generally manifest around the 6-month mark. Patients should be counseled on the potential for gradual improvement, rather than expecting immediate relief, which aligns with the pharmacological understanding of finasteride's action and its impact on prostatic tissue. This timeline also helps manage patient expectations and reinforces the importance of adherence to the prescribed treatment course for optimal results.