Can Propecia (Finasteride) Cause Permanent Sexual Problems?

To date, Propecia, which contains the active ingredient finasteride is considered the most effective drug for men in stopping and even reversing the effects of androgenic alopecia (male pattern baldness). However, much like other drugs, risks of potential side effects exist. The ones that concern men the most include decreased libido, difficulty in achieving and maintaining an erection, and a decrease in the amount of semen. But are these sexual side effects permanent? Or will they disappear after stopping the use of the medication?

Propecia’s website reports that these sexual side effects went away in men who stopped taking Propecia because of them. Their website also reports that for those who continued with Propecia, these side effects decreased to 0.3% or less by the fifth year of treatment. However, a new study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine suggests that long term or even permanent sexual side effects may be associated with Propecia (finasteride). The study however, is not without its problems and is cause for some ambiguity.

To view the study and determine for yourself whether or not Propecia may come with risks of persistent or even permanent sexual side effects, visit “Does Propecia (Finasteride) Cause Permanent Sexual Problems?” To discuss this important topic with other hair loss sufferers and expert physicians, visit the discussion topic, “The Developing Truth About Finasteride“. You are encouraged to share your input and personal experience with Propecia.

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David – aka TakingThePlunge
Forum Co-Moderator and Editorial Assistant for the Hair Transplant Network, the Hair Loss Learning Center, the Hair Loss Q&A Blog, and the Hair Restoration Forum

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Technorati Tags: Propecia, finasteride, androgenic alopecia, male pattern baldness, Journal of Sexual Medicine, hair loss

David aka - TakingthePlunge

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View Comments

Blake aka - FutureHTDoc says:

June 25, 2012 at 2:29 pm

Paharchura,

While some individual have reported issues, to my knowledge, no conclusive study has been completed about sexual dysfunction and minoxidil.

According to the official reports, the side effects for minoxidil include the following:

"Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); chest pain; dizziness; fainting; fast heartbeat; redness or irritation of the scalp; sudden, unexplained weight gain; swelling of the hands or feet; unwanted facial hair growth."

Frankly, it does not appear that sexual dysfunction, permanent or otherwise, is listed. However, if you are uncomfortable with this potential side effect or anything else about the medication, I highly recommend discussing the issue with a trusted physician.

Good luck!

Blake (Future_HT_Doc)
Editorial Assistant
Paharchura says:

June 24, 2012 at 5:46 am

Does local minoxidil preparation( oil or spray) also causes sexual problem?does every person suffering from , who use these. Is there Any bilateral therapy is available to stop or minimize these untoward effect?