71 citations,
November 2012 in “Expert Opinion on Drug Safety”
5-alpha reductase inhibitors can cause sexual side effects like erectile dysfunction and reduced sexual desire, sometimes lasting after stopping the drug.
Stopping finasteride often restores sexual function, with many experiencing improved libido and erections. Some users switch to minoxidil or topical finasteride to manage side effects while maintaining hair health.
Finasteride can cause side effects like erectile dysfunction and decreased libido, possibly due to increased estradiol from testosterone aromatization, especially in those with higher body fat. Side effects vary widely and may also be influenced by genetic factors or neurosteroid inhibition.
A user shared their five-year experience with finasteride for hair loss, noting positive results and no side effects. The discussion included debates on potential side effects like erectile dysfunction and the treatment's effectiveness.
The conversation discusses the side effects of finasteride, including low libido and erectile dysfunction, and the possibility of these effects being permanent, known as post-finasteride syndrome (PFS). Some users report personal experiences with PFS and debate whether the condition is real, with varying opinions on the reversibility of side effects and the role of individual biology.
Finasteride, a medication for hair loss that has both positive and negative effects. Users discussed their own personal experiences with the drug as well as potential side-effects of taking it, such as erectile dysfunction or gynecomastia. Suggestions were also made about starting at a lower dosage to minimize these risks.