Tag: 5 alpha reductase inhibitor

According to reputable medical sources like the Mayo Clinic, the answer is definitively no—**Does Flomax shrink the prostate?** The medication Flomax (tamsulosin) is an alpha-blocker that works by relaxing muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, easing the flow of urine, rather than physically shrinking the enlarged gland. This mechanism is different from other BPH medications that are designed to reduce the size of the prostate over time.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate, is a prevalent condition affecting millions of men, with rates increasing significantly with age. For men experiencing bothersome urinary symptoms, the question 'Does finasteride shrink the prostate?' is highly relevant, and the answer is a definitive yes. This article delves into the mechanism, effectiveness, and considerations surrounding finasteride's use for prostate health.

In November 2001, the FDA approved the medication known by the brand name Avodart; the generic name is **dutasteride**, the drug often shortened to "dut". This prescription drug is a potent 5-alpha reductase inhibitor primarily used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and, off-label, for male pattern hair loss.

According to the U.S. FDA, dutasteride was approved in 2001 for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This potent medication is a dual 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, and understanding exactly what is dutasteride used for is crucial for anyone considering this prescription.

First approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1992, finasteride is an established prescription drug used to treat male-related health conditions. This article explores the pharmacological details to definitively answer: Is finasteride a drug?, and explains its mechanism, uses, and potential risks.