TLDR Finasteride can cause lasting erectile dysfunction, low libido, and depression in some patients.
A 24-year-old man experienced erectile dysfunction, loss of libido, numbness, soreness of testicles, and depression during treatment with finasteride for androgenetic alopecia. His symptoms persisted even after stopping the treatment and seeking medical help. A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine in 2011 reported similar adverse effects of 5alpha-reductase inhibitors therapy, including persistent diminished libido, erectile dysfunction, and depression in some patients.
223 citations,
December 2010 in “The Journal of Sexual Medicine” Some patients taking finasteride or dutasteride may have ongoing sexual problems and depression even after stopping the medication.
13 citations,
June 2018 in “Current Urology Reports” Hair loss drugs may cause sexual issues and infertility in men.
33 citations,
January 2016 in “Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology” Taking 1 mg of finasteride daily can increase hair count and improve hair appearance, but it may have side effects on sexual function and a potential risk of prostate cancer. It may not be effective for postmenopausal women unless taken in higher doses.
8 citations,
July 2018 in “Current Sexual Health Reports” Finasteride can cause lasting sexual dysfunction, depression, and other side effects, needing more research for treatment.
35 citations,
January 2012 in “The Journal of Sexual Medicine” Androgen Deprivation Therapy for prostate cancer often reduces sexual function but intermittent therapy may be more tolerable.
40 citations,
April 2018 in “Endocrine” PFS and PSSD are similar conditions with persistent sexual dysfunction after stopping medication.
7 citations,
January 2019 in “The Aging Male” Post-finasteride syndrome's existence is uncertain; more research needed.
