TLDR Finasteride may affect male fertility by interfering with specific sperm signaling.
The study investigated the effects of finasteride on Ca2+ signaling in human sperm, particularly through the CatSper channel. Finasteride caused a minor transient rise in intracellular Ca2+ concentration and inhibited PGE1-induced Ca2+ signals but did not affect progesterone-induced signaling, acrosome reaction, or sperm viability. It also reduced PGE1-induced sperm penetration into a viscous medium at higher concentrations than typically found in blood and seminal fluids. The findings suggested that finasteride might affect Ca2+ signaling in sperm by interacting with the PGE1-binding site, indicating potential implications for male fertility and the need for further research to understand its impact on fertilization and prostaglandin signaling in other parts of the body.
15 citations,
March 2020 in “Anais Brasileiros De Dermatologia” Finasteride may cause lasting sexual, mental, and physical symptoms; use with caution.
11 citations,
March 2010 in “International Journal of Andrology” Finasteride 1-mg doesn't harm sperm or pregnancy chances.
195 citations,
February 2007 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” Dutasteride and finasteride may reduce sperm count and volume but don't affect movement or shape; effects are reversible after stopping.
104 citations,
October 1999 in “The Journal of Urology” Finasteride doesn't harm male fertility or sperm quality, but may slightly reduce ejaculate volume.
4 citations,
January 2023 in “Andrology” The testes produce sperm and hormones essential for male development.
58 citations,
March 2013 in “Human Reproduction Update” Products should be called 'sperm-safe' only after thorough, well-designed tests.
August 2023 in “International journal of impotence research” Many dermatologists believe finasteride can cause sexual side effects and counsel patients about them.
93 citations,
January 1996 in “Clinical Pharmacokinectics” Finasteride helps regrow hair and shrink prostate by reducing DHT, with some sexual side effects.
November 2023 in “Journal of Student Research” New treatments like low-level laser therapy, platelet-rich plasma therapy, and micro needling show positive results for hair regrowth in people with genetic hair loss.
