Penile fibrosis, otherwise known as Peyronie’s disease, is characterized as a connective tissue disorder that witnesses the development of fibrous plaque in the soft tissue of the penis. The presence of the plaque may result in several persistent sexual side effects that can interfere with a man’s quality of life in a profound way. While relatively common, Peyronie’s disease occurs in about 10% of men. However, the introduction of certain outside factors may increase the rate in which this condition occurs. Men who use Propecia (generic: finasteride) may significantly increase their risk of developing penile fibrosis.
If you or a loved one has suffered from penile fibrosis after taking Propecia, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.
Propecia Penile Fibrosis Lawsuit Overview
Developed and distributed by pharmaceutical industry leader Merck, Propecia was introduced to the U.S. market on December 19, 1997. Prior to its release, regulators at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Propecia treatment to assist in the growth of hair on the anterior and mild scalp region of men.
Finasteride, the active ingredient contained within Propecia, belongs to a class of medications known as 5-alpha reductase inhibitors. As a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, finasteride treats male pattern hair loss by preventing the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the scalp, which prevents hair growth. DHT is a substance in the body that can shrink hair follicles until they no longer produces visible hair. Accordingly, Propecia promotes steady hair growth on the scalp.
Unfortunately, the introduction of Propecia may result in catastrophic complications, one of which is persistent sexual dysfunction. Men who use Propecia may significantly increase their risk of developing persistent sexual dysfunction and any subsequent complications that may occur. Of the sexual dysfunction conditions that have been associated with Propecia treatment, penile fibrosis is perhaps the most severe. Due to the severity of persistent sexual dysfunction, men may contact a lawyer at The Senators (Ret.) Frim, LLP for a free case evaluation regarding their potential Propecia penile fibrosis lawsuit.
Penile Fibrosis
Synonymous with that of Peyronie’s disease and more recently chronic inflammation of the tunica albuginea (CITA), penile fibrosis is a connective tissue disorder involving the growth of fibrous plaque in the soft tissue of the penis. Typically, the development of penile fibrosis coincides with the development of scar tissue in the tunica albuginea. The presence of scar tissue in this region may result in a number of persistent sexual side effects including: pain, abnormal curvature, erectile dysfunction, indentation, loss of girth and shortening of the penis. The condition my also make sexual intercourse painful and/or difficult for those diagnosed with it.
Peyronie’s disease can be a physically and psychologically devastating disease. While most men will continue to be able to have sexual relations, they are likely to experience some degree of deformity and erectile dysfunction in the wake of the disease process. It is not uncommon for men afflicted with Peyronie’s disease to exhibit depression or withdrawal from their sexual partners.
Persistent Sexual Side Effects Study
According to a recent study published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine, finasteride has been linked to adverse sexual side effects in multiple randomized, controlled trials for the treatment of male pattern baldness. The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency of the United Kingdom and the Swedish Medical Products Agency have added the following information to patient leaflets: “Persistence of erectile dysfunction after discontinuation of treatment with Propecia has been reported in post-marketing use.”
Upon conclusion of the study, subjects reported new-onset persistent sexual dysfunction associated with the use of finasteride: 94% developed low libido, 92% developed erectile dysfunction, 92% developed decreased arousal, and 69% developed problems with orgasm. The mean number of sexual episodes per month dropped and the total sexual dysfunction score increased for before and after finasteride use according to the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (P < 0.0001 for both).
Do I Have a Propecia Penile Fibrosis Lawsuit?
The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in Propecia penile fibrosis lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has suffered from penile fibrosis after taking Propecia, you should contact our lawyers immediately by clicking the link below or calling toll free 1-(949) 557-5800. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.