Finasteride side effects men
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Finasteride Side Effects in Men: A Comprehensive Overview
Introduction to Finasteride and Its Uses
Finasteride is a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor commonly prescribed for male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) and benign prostatic hyperplasia. While effective in reducing symptoms of these conditions, finasteride has been associated with a range of adverse effects, some of which may persist even after discontinuation of the drug.
Persistent Sexual Side Effects
Erectile Dysfunction and Low Libido
Multiple studies have documented persistent sexual side effects in men who have used finasteride. These side effects include erectile dysfunction, low libido, and difficulties with orgasm. For instance, one study found that 94% of men developed low libido, 92% experienced erectile dysfunction, and 69% had problems with orgasm after using finasteride . Another study reported that 40.5% of participants found it very difficult to get and keep an erection, and 16.5% had trouble reaching orgasm .
Loss of Penis Sensitivity and Ejaculatory Issues
In addition to erectile dysfunction and low libido, men have reported other sexual dysfunctions such as loss of penis sensitivity and decreased ejaculatory force. A study involving 79 young men found that 87.3% experienced loss of penis sensitivity, and 82.3% had decreased ejaculatory force .
Non-Sexual Side Effects
Depression and Anxiety
Finasteride has also been linked to non-sexual side effects, including depression and anxiety. Several studies have noted an increase in depression, anxiety, and even suicidal ideation among men who have taken finasteride 25. These psychological effects are thought to be related to the drug's impact on neurosteroids like allopregnanolone .
Cognitive Impairment
Cognitive issues such as lack of mental concentration and memory problems have also been reported. One study highlighted that 72.2% of participants experienced a lack of mental concentration . Another study found that cognitive symptoms persisted in men even after they stopped taking the medication .
Decreased Alcohol Consumption
Interestingly, finasteride has been associated with a reduction in alcohol consumption. A study involving 83 men found that 65% of those who consumed alcohol before taking finasteride reported a decrease in their alcohol intake after discontinuing the drug . This phenomenon is consistent with findings in rodent models, where finasteride has been shown to reduce alcohol intake .
Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS)
Definition and Symptoms
The term "Post-Finasteride Syndrome" (PFS) has been coined to describe the constellation of persistent sexual, neurological, and physical side effects that some men experience after discontinuing finasteride. Symptoms of PFS include sexual dysfunction, depression, anxiety, cognitive complaints, and physical issues like loss of muscle tone 25.
Lack of Effective Treatments
Currently, there are no evidence-based treatments for PFS. The medical community has yet to fully recognize this syndrome, and more research is needed to understand its underlying mechanisms and develop potential therapies .
Conclusion
Finasteride, while effective for treating male pattern hair loss and benign prostatic hyperplasia, has been associated with a range of persistent side effects in some men. These include sexual dysfunction, depression, anxiety, cognitive impairment, and decreased alcohol consumption. The phenomenon known as Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS) remains an area of active research, with no effective treatments currently available. Men considering finasteride should be made aware of these potential risks. Further studies are essential to understand the mechanisms behind these adverse effects and to develop effective interventions.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic