TLDR Finasteride reduces urinary issues and surgery need in men with enlarged prostates by over 50%.
Finasteride is an effective treatment for men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), reducing the risk of acute urinary retention and the need for surgical treatment by 57% and 55%, respectively, according to a study involving 3040 men with moderate-to-severe urinary symptoms and enlarged prostate glands who were treated with either finasteride or a placebo for four years. However, some men may discontinue its use due to side effects or lack of effectiveness. Finasteride also improves symptoms, decreases prostate volume, and improves urinary flow rate.
728 citations,
August 1996 in “The New England Journal of Medicine” Terazosin and finasteride effectively treat BPH, but combining them adds no extra benefit.
1040 citations,
October 1992 in “The New England Journal of Medicine” Finasteride effectively treats BPH but may increase sexual dysfunction risk.
11 citations,
February 2004 in “Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology” Taking Propecia might lead to the development of cataracts.
June 2024 in “Georgetown medical review” Finasteride treats hair loss but may cause low libido, erectile issues, and depression.
June 2017 in “Reactions Weekly” Finasteride (Propecia) may cause depression and suicidal thoughts; stop use and inform a healthcare professional if symptoms develop.
3 citations,
June 2004 in “Annales De Dermatologie Et De Venereologie” Four new cases of gynecomastia (male breast enlargement) linked to finasteride (Propecia) have been found.
Finasteride is popular for treating male hair loss but may increase the risk of serious prostate cancer and has other potential side effects.
2 citations,
January 2003 in “Journal of Clinical Dermatology”
