Propecia® (Finasteride) Side Effects
Propecia®, generically known as finasteride, has been linked to a range of side effects, some minor and some severe. If you've suffered serious and persistent side effects while taking Propecia® or after stopping use, you might be eligible for compensation. Contact our Propecia® attorneys for more information.
Side Effects of Propecia®
Like most drugs, there is a chance of an allergic reaction, which can cause itching, rash, with swelling in the lips and other areas of the face. Other side effects that have been reported include:
- Breast tenderness and enlargement
- Testicular pain
- Problems with ejaculation
Sexual Side Effects
Men who take Propecia® have an increased risk of sexual side effects, including:
- Less desire for sex
- Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection long enough to have sexual intercourse (erectile dysfunction)
- Decrease in the amount of semen and problems having an orgasm
According to Merck, only a small percentage of men (2 percent) have experienced sexual side effects from Propecia®. The company also claims that the sexual side effects will go away after stopping use of the drug.
Results from a new study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine suggests otherwise. According to the study, a higher percentage of men could be at risk. The study also suggests the sexual side effects are persistent in some users and may even be permanent.
Study author, Dr. Michael S. Irwig of George Washington University, interviewed men between the ages of 21 and 46 who were affected by sexual side effects after using Propecia®. He found that 94 percent of the participants experienced low libido, 92 percent experienced erectile dysfunction and 69 percent had problems with orgasm.
Dr. Irwig also found that even though the average length of treatment was 28 months, on average, the participants said they experienced the side effects for a total of 40 months.
Are You Experiencing Propecia® Side Effects?
If you took Propecia® and have suffered sexual side effects that have persisted, you might be eligible for compensation. To find out if you qualify to file a lawsuit, contact our Propecia® side effect lawyers today. We offer free, confidential case reviews for prospective clients.