An Irreversible Affection of the Sexual Sphere: A Case Report
February 2026
in “
Journal of Psychosexual Health
”
TLDR Finasteride can cause long-lasting sexual dysfunction even after stopping the drug.
This case report discusses a 26-year-old man who developed persistent sexual dysfunction after using finasteride for androgenetic alopecia, a condition known as post-finasteride syndrome (PFS). Despite discontinuing the drug after 6 months, his symptoms persisted for 19 months. PFS is characterized by sexual, neurological, and psychiatric symptoms that can last for months or even years after stopping finasteride. The exact prevalence and mechanisms of PFS are unclear, and there is no proven treatment. The report emphasizes the importance of informed consent and risk-benefit assessment before prescribing finasteride, as PFS can significantly impact quality of life.