Abstracts from the Current Global Literature: Finasteride and Sexual Dysfunction
July 2017
in “
Indian journal of sexually transmitted diseases and AIDS
”
TLDR Finasteride, a hair loss drug, can cause sexual side effects like erectile dysfunction in 2.1%-3.8% of users, but these usually go away with time or if the drug is stopped. Despite this, its impact on sexual function is minimal for most men.
The document from 2017 reviews several studies on the effects of Finasteride, a drug used to treat androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss), on sexual function. The studies reveal that sexual adverse effects occur at rates of 2.1%–3.8%, with erectile dysfunction being the most common, followed by ejaculatory dysfunction and loss of libido. These side effects usually occur early in the therapy and return to normal upon discontinuation or over time with continuous usage of the drug. A large prospective study involving 17,313 patients concluded that the effect of Finasteride on sexual functioning is minimal for most men and should not impact the decision to prescribe or take the drug. However, the safety of the drug is considered questionable, and the potential risk levels should be discussed with patients. The document also mentions that lower daily doses or staggered pulse doses of the drug could be considered to enhance patient compliance.
