Drug-Induced Erectile Dysfunction: A Real-World Pharmacovigilance Study Using the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System Database

A user shared their experience with finasteride, reporting severe side effects like erectile dysfunction and watery semen, which improved after stopping the medication. They emphasized the risks of finasteride and decided not to resume its use despite hair loss stabilization.

The FDA warned that topical finasteride can cause serious side effects like sexual dysfunction and brain fog, similar to oral finasteride. Compounded topical formulations pose additional risks due to lack of regulation.

Concerns about a potential ban on finasteride and dutasteride due to side effects, with users advocating for continued access and informed choice. Alternative treatments like pyrilutamide are also mentioned.

Finasteride is not linked to a 60% risk of persistent sexual dysfunction; this figure applies only to those already experiencing sexual issues. Most users do not have side effects, and the study's methodology is criticized for selection bias.

Finasteride is recommended for hair loss treatment, with potential side effects like erectile issues in 1 in 33 users, which typically resolve after stopping the drug. Users report mixed experiences, with some experiencing initial side effects like brain fog and others seeing no issues, and the drug is generally considered effective for maintaining or regrowing hair.

The user experienced severe side effects from finasteride, including hormonal imbalances and cognitive issues, leading to a recommendation to stop its use. They plan to follow up with tests to rule out a pituitary tumor and are considering topical treatments as alternatives.