Side Effects of Finasteride

Summary

In this video, a doctor shares insights about the commonly discussed medication, finasteride, used for hair loss prevention. He explains the typical side effects, which include sexual issues like decreased libido and erectile dysfunction, and clarifies that these occur in only 2-3% of users. The doctor also addresses concerns about rare, long-term side effects such as post-finasteride syndrome, pointing out that the side effects often subside with dose adjustments or cessation. He emphasizes the importance of good communication with healthcare providers and the need for proper monitoring while using finasteride to ensure its benefits outweigh the risks.

Takeaways

• 😀 Finasteride side effects usually appear within weeks of starting treatment, but some patients may experience them after years.
• 😀 Sexual side effects, such as decreased libido and erectile dysfunction, occur in 2-3% of patients on the standard 1mg daily dose of finasteride.
• 😀 Contrary to common belief, sexual side effects are not as prevalent as 50%; clinical trials show they occur in around 2-3% of people.
• 😀 In many cases, side effects subside within weeks to months after stopping finasteride, and dose adjustments can help manage these effects.
• 😀 Non-sexual side effects include breast tenderness (gynaecomastia), which occurs in about 4% of users, and a very low incidence of male breast cancer.
• 😀 Finasteride may help in early detection of prostate cancer, though it does not increase the risk for high-grade prostate cancer as initially thought.
• 😀 Psychological effects, like depression and brain fog, are rare but can be more pronounced in patients with pre-existing conditions.
• 😀 Patients with liver problems should be cautious when taking finasteride, as it is metabolized by the liver.
• 😀 Finasteride should not be used by pregnant women, as it can cause developmental issues in male fetuses; men should stop taking it 2-3 months before trying to conceive.
• 😀 Topical finasteride can be an effective alternative for reducing systemic side effects, but it still carries some risks for pregnant women.
• 😀 Despite potential side effects, over 90% of finasteride users experience long-term success, and it is considered more effective than hair transplants for many patients.

Q & A

What are the common side effects of finasteride?

The most common side effects of finasteride are sexual in nature, including decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and a reduction in ejaculatory volume. These side effects occur in about 2 to 3% of patients on a 1mg daily dose.

How soon after starting finasteride do side effects typically appear?

Side effects typically develop within a few weeks of starting finasteride, though in some cases, they may appear later, even years after starting the medication.

Are the side effects of finasteride permanent?

Most side effects of finasteride go away within weeks to months after stopping the medication. However, rare cases of persistent side effects, known as post-finasteride syndrome, have been reported, though there is no established causal relationship.

What is post-finasteride syndrome, and is it common?

Post-finasteride syndrome refers to persistent side effects that remain even after discontinuing the medication, such as sexual dysfunction. While it is a rare occurrence, it is controversial and lacks conclusive research to establish a definitive causal link.

What should you do if you experience side effects from finasteride?

If side effects occur, it is important to report them to your prescribing physician. The doctor may recommend stopping the medication, adjusting the dose, or switching to a topical form of finasteride to minimize the risk of side effects.

Are sexual side effects more common with higher doses or stronger medications like dutasteride?

Yes, sexual side effects are more common with dutasteride, a stronger medication than finasteride. However, the incidence can be reduced by lowering the dose of finasteride or using a topical formulation.

Can finasteride lead to prostate cancer or affect prostate health?

Finasteride reduces the volume of the prostate and was initially thought to reduce the risk of prostate cancer. However, it was later found that it may increase the detection of high-grade prostate cancer, but there is no clear causal link between finasteride and higher prostate cancer risk.

Is it safe for people with liver problems to take finasteride?

Finasteride is metabolized by the liver, so it is important for patients with liver problems to use the medication with caution. Consultation with a healthcare provider is essential to determine if finasteride is appropriate for these individuals.

What are the risks of finasteride use during pregnancy?

Finasteride is not recommended for use in women, especially pregnant women, due to the risk of developmental abnormalities in male fetuses. Men are advised to stop taking finasteride 2 to 3 months before trying to conceive to avoid potential risks.

What should you do if you're considering using finasteride for hair loss?

If you're considering finasteride for hair loss, it's important to consult with your healthcare provider to assess potential side effects. It may be beneficial to start with a lower dose or try topical finasteride, which may reduce the risk of systemic side effects.