Finasteride, Not Tamsulosin, Increases Severity of Erectile Dysfunction and Decreases Testosterone Levels in Men With Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

    Abdulmaged M. Traish, Karim Sultan Haider, Gheorghe Doros, Ahmad Haider
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    TLDR Finasteride worsens erectile dysfunction and lowers testosterone in men with enlarged prostates, unlike tamsulosin.
    The study from June 6, 2015, involving 700 men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), found that finasteride treatment over a 45-month period led to a significant worsening of erectile dysfunction (ED) and a decrease in testosterone levels, which did not resolve with continued treatment. In contrast, tamsulosin did not have these adverse effects. Finasteride also increased Aging Male Symptoms (AMS) scale scores, indicating a poorer quality of life, and was associated with increased liver enzymes, suggesting altered liver function. The study highlights the importance of clinicians discussing the potential sexual and hormonal side effects of finasteride with their patients before starting therapy.
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      community People who tolerate dut better than fin?

      in Finasteride/Dutasteride  32 upvotes 1 month ago
      Dutasteride may have fewer side effects than finasteride, with some users experiencing better hair maintenance. Experiences vary, with some preferring dutasteride for fewer side effects, while others see no significant hair improvement.

      community Why is everyone not directly advised Dutasteride?

      in Finasteride/Dutasteride  165 upvotes 1 month ago
      Dutasteride is less commonly prescribed for hair loss because it is not FDA-approved for this purpose, unlike finasteride, which is more accessible and preferred due to fewer side effects. Dutasteride may be more effective in reducing DHT but has a longer half-life and potentially more significant side effects.

      community 7 years finasteride + 2 year dutasteride - Experience

      in Progress Pictures  15 upvotes 8 months ago
      A 35-year-old started finasteride in 2014 for hair loss and maintained hair density for 7 years, occasionally using ketoconazole shampoo. Switched to dutasteride in 2022 due to increased hair fall, experimented with dosages, and found a combination with tamsulosin effective despite initial adverse reactions.

      community 3.5 years progress. Oral Fin + Topical Min

      in Progress Pictures  20 upvotes 1 year ago
      The user shared a 3.5-year hair loss treatment journey, starting with daily finasteride and oral minoxidil, then switching to finasteride 4 times a week and daily topical minoxidil. After about 2 years and 9 months, they added Dutasteride and Tamsulosin Hydrochloride to their regimen, but reduced the frequency due to side effects, and are currently satisfied with the results.

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