Once believed to be the next generation in hair loss prevention, Propecia (generic: finasteride) has become synonymous with severe complications that may interfere with an individual’s quality of life in a profound way. According to recent studies, Propecia use may coincide with the development of persistent sexual dysfunction. Men who use this hair loss treatment may significantly increase their risk of developing Propecia sexual side effects such as decreased libido and arousal, erectile dysfunction, and problems with orgasm.
If you or a loved one has developed Propecia sexual side effects, 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 Sexual Side Effects Overview
As a product of Merck & Co., Propecia was developed on December 19, 1997. After gaining approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), 1MG tablets of finasteride (Propecia) were indicated for the treatment of male pattern baldness, particularly on the vertex and the anterior mid-scalp area.
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 mechanisms of action exhibited by finasteride may coincide with debilitating complications. Studies suggest that the use of finasteride may result in Propecia sexual side effects. According to research, men who receive Propecia treatment for a prolonged period of time may significantly increase their risk of developing decreased libido and arousal, erectile dysfunction, problems with orgasm, and several other variations of persistent sexual dysfunction.
Propecia Sexual Side Effects
The following is a comprehensive list of potential Propecia sexual side effects:
- Lowered libido
- Erectile dysfunction
- Difficulty reaching orgasm
- Decreased arousal
- Loss of androgenic actions
- Hypogonadism
Propecia Sexual Side Effects Study
Researchers conducted standardized interviews with 71 otherwise healthy men aged 21–46 years who reported the new onset of sexual side effects associated with the temporal use of finasteride, in which the symptoms persisted for at least 3 months despite the discontinuation of finasteride.
These complications are founded in the data provided by a recent study published in theJournal of Sexual Medicine. According to 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). The mean duration of finasteride use was 28 months and the mean duration of persistent sexual side effects was 40 months from the time of finasteride cessation to the interview date.
In response to several clinical trials and an influx of adverse sexual health reports, the FDA has announced significant changes that will be made to Propecia labels. The new label changes include:
- A revision to the Propecia label to include libido disorders, ejaculation disorders, and orgasm disorders that continued after discontinuation of the drug.
- A revision to both the Propecia and Proscar labels to include a description of reports of male infertility and/or poor semen quality that normalized or improved after drug discontinuation.
Post-Finasteride Syndrome
5-alpha reductase inhibitors demonstrate a propensity for the inhibition of 5-alpha reductase and DHT, each of which are responsible for male pattern baldness. However, these hormones may serve as critical components in the proper development of mental, physical, sexual and fertility functions in men. The resulting suppression of the endocrine system may lead to Post-Finasteride Syndrome.
Post-Finasteride Syndrome is characterized as a clinical condition that witnesses the development of permanent sexual, mental and physical side effects. Subsequently, these complications neglect to resolve themselves after discontinuing finasteride. An acquired form of secondary hypogonadism and post-drug loss of androgenic action often accompanies those with Post-Finasteride Syndrome. Post-drug reactions such as these have become synonymous with lowered testosterone, which may be responsible for the development of persistent sexual dysfunction witnessed in Propecia sexual side effects.
Do I Have a Propecia Sexual Side Effects 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 sexual side effects lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has experienced persistent sexual side effects 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.