Risk Of Erectile Dysfunction Among Reproductive-Aged Men Following Low-Dose Finasteride Use For Androgenetic Alopecia: A Propensity-Matched Cohort Study

Dutasteride and finasteride have similar risks of sexual dysfunction for treating androgenetic alopecia. Users experience varying side effects, indicating individual differences in drug reactions.

A 19-year-old with diffuse hair thinning and erectile dysfunction is considering starting Propecia (finasteride) while already using a minoxidil solution with anti-androgens. Concerns are raised about the psychological nature of erectile dysfunction and the potential systemic effects of anti-androgens, with suggestions to address porn addiction and consult a doctor about hormone therapy.

Finasteride has led to significant hair regrowth for some users, with noticeable improvements in two months, but side effects like erectile dysfunction have caused some to stop using it. Some users combine finasteride with minoxidil and other supplements, despite concerns about side effects.

A 27-year-old male physician improved hair density using minoxidil 5% foam and finasteride 1mg every other day, with initial sexual side effects that subsided. He recommends trying finasteride for a year but warns against dutasteride due to potential liver effects.

The user experienced successful hair regrowth with Finasteride and Minoxidil but developed erectile dysfunction and abdominal pain, possibly due to medication or lifestyle changes. They plan to consult a urologist and consider adjusting medication or trying supplements like zinc, DIM, or boron.

Finasteride is recommended for hair loss treatment, with potential side effects like erectile issues in 1 in 33 users, which typically resolve after stopping the drug. Users report mixed experiences, with some experiencing initial side effects like brain fog and others seeing no issues, and the drug is generally considered effective for maintaining or regrowing hair.