Finasteride SIDE EFFECTS To Know Before You Start!

Summary

This video script provides a detailed discussion about finasteride, a medication commonly used to treat hair loss, focusing on its side effects, effectiveness, and management strategies. The doctor emphasizes that while side effects like sexual dysfunction are possible, they are rare (2-3% of users) and often reversible. Alternative dosages and topical treatments can help mitigate these issues. The script also addresses concerns like prostate health, liver function, and precautions for pregnant women. The key message is that, when managed properly, finasteride is a safe and effective option for many patients seeking to preserve their hair.

Takeaways

• 😀 Finasteride side effects, particularly sexual ones, typically occur within the first few weeks but can be mitigated by adjusting the dose or discontinuing use.
• 😀 Only 2-3% of users experience sexual side effects like decreased libido or erectile dysfunction, much lower than commonly perceived by the public.
• 😀 It's rare, but some individuals report permanent side effects, a condition known as post-finasteride syndrome, though no statistical link has been established.
• 😀 Other causes of reduced sex drive, such as lifestyle factors, psychological issues, and health conditions, may be mistaken for finasteride side effects.
• 😀 Side effects like gynecomastia (breast tenderness/enlargement) occur in around 4% of users and are generally reversible after stopping the medication.
• 😀 Research has shown no direct connection between finasteride and high-grade prostate cancer, though it can affect PSA levels, making screenings more complex.
• 😀 Mental health side effects, including depression and brain fog, are possible but uncommon and should be monitored in patients with pre-existing conditions.
• 😀 Finasteride is not recommended for women, especially those pregnant, due to the risk of developmental abnormalities in male fetuses.
• 😀 If side effects occur, they often resolve after discontinuing the medication, and dose adjustments or switching to topical finasteride may reduce risks.
• 😀 Finasteride has proven more effective than hair transplants in many cases, as it preserves existing hair and reduces further hair loss over the long term.
• 😀 Communication between patients and doctors is essential to monitor side effects, adjust treatment plans, and make informed decisions about continued use.

Q & A

What is the most common side effect 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 occur in about 2-3% of users.

How soon after starting finasteride do side effects typically appear?

Side effects usually develop within a few weeks of starting finasteride, although some individuals may experience them later, even after years of use.

Can side effects from finasteride be permanent?

While most side effects tend to resolve within weeks to months after discontinuation of the medication, there are rare cases of persistent side effects, known as post-finasteride syndrome, though this is not universally proven.

What is the incidence of sexual side effects in the placebo group during finasteride studies?

In clinical studies, sexual side effects were reported in about 3% of individuals taking a placebo, showing that some sexual issues may occur even without taking the medication.

What are some other potential causes for sexual side effects besides finasteride?

Other causes for similar sexual side effects include smoking, poor health, endocrine issues, cardiac problems, circulatory issues, structural issues, and psychological factors.

How can side effects be managed when they occur?

If side effects occur, the first step is to consult with a healthcare provider who may adjust the dosage, switch to a topical form of finasteride, or discontinue the medication.

What are the non-sexual side effects of finasteride?

Non-sexual side effects of finasteride can include breast tenderness or enlargement (gynecomastia), male breast cancer (in very rare cases), psychological effects like depression or brain fog, and potential allergic reactions.

Is finasteride safe for pregnant women or women trying to conceive?

Finasteride is not safe for pregnant women or women trying to conceive due to the risk of developmental abnormalities in male fetuses. It is also recommended to stop taking the medication 2-3 months before trying to conceive.

What should patients on finasteride do before undergoing prostate cancer screening?

Patients taking finasteride should inform their urologist or primary care physician before prostate cancer screening, as the medication can lower PSA levels by about 50%, which may affect test results.

How does topical finasteride compare to oral finasteride in terms of side effects?

Topical finasteride tends to have a lower incidence of side effects compared to oral finasteride, especially sexual side effects, as it delivers a lower amount of the drug systemically.