Importance Score: 55 / 100 🔵
A leading American surgeon advises against the use of finasteride, a popular hair loss drug, due to reported risks of enduring genital changes. This medication, used by figures such as Donald Trump and numerous others, has come under scrutiny for its potential adverse effects.
Expert Urologist Warns Against Finasteride
Dr. Edward Schaeffer, a consulting urologist renowned for treating actor Ben Stiller’s prostate cancer, cautions men to avoid finasteride. His advice stems from concerns about frequent and potentially irreversible side effects linked to the drug.
Common and Permanent Side Effects
Dr. Schaeffer highlights that finasteride is known to induce:
- Impotence
- Depression
These side effects have been observed in approximately one in ten men.
Reports of Genital Changes Spark Concern
Recently, finasteride has faced increased scrutiny following allegations that it can lead to genital shrinkage and lasting alterations in shape. Data from the UK’s medicines regulatory body indicates that at least 39 British men believe they have experienced such effects.
Understanding Finasteride and Its Effects
Originally developed for men suffering from enlarged prostates, finasteride has gained popularity as a treatment for male pattern baldness. It functions by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
The Role of DHT
High DHT levels are thought to contribute to hair loss by shrinking follicles on the scalp. However, DHT is essential for:
- Sexual arousal
- Erectile function
- Maintaining healthy genital tissue
Consequently, reducing DHT levels can lead to unintended consequences.
Rising Reports of Adverse Effects
While finasteride can effectively promote hair growth, some men might be subject to significant risks. UK data reveals a threefold increase in reports of:
- Depression
- Low libido
- Erectile dysfunction
These issues are attributed to finasteride use.
Reports of Genital Shrinkage and Peyronie’s Disease
Analysis indicates that 39 men have reported genital shrinkage to British drug safety regulators while using finasteride. Furthermore, 16 men reported developing Peyronie’s disease, a condition characterized by scar tissue formation in the penis, causing curvature during erection.
Concerns About Suicide and Self-Harm
Reports also associate the drug with 87 cases of suicide, attempted suicide, or self-harming behavior. Twelve of these cases resulted in fatalities. These suspected side effects were documented under the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) ‘Yellow Card’ scheme, which facilitates the reporting of adverse drug reactions.
Expert Insights on Finasteride’s Impact
Dr. Schaeffer, speaking on The Peter Attia Drive Podcast, estimates that around 10% of men taking finasteride may encounter problems with intimacy and mental well-being.
The Reality of Post-Finasteride Syndrome
‘The side effects from this post-finasteride syndrome are real,’ Dr. Schaeffer emphasizes. He notes that while some individuals experience resolution of symptoms within weeks of discontinuing the medication, others may suffer permanently.
DHT’s Crucial Role
Dr. Schaeffer suggests that the problems are likely related to the drug’s DHT-suppressing action. He asserts that ‘having that hormone around is critical for just about everything.’
FDA and Patient Complaints in the US
In the US, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has received 32 complaints concerning finasteride products between 2019 and 2024. Customers reported incidents such as:
- Erectile dysfunction
- Anxiety
- Suicidal thoughts
- Brain fog
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Decreased libido
- Testicular pain
Notably, many complainants stated that these adverse effects persisted even after stopping the medication. The FDA has issued warnings regarding the potential risks finasteride poses to men’s genitals.
Patient Testimonials
One individual, Mark Millich, a former US Army sergeant, shared his experience, stating that finasteride, intended to treat his baldness, instead led to a plunge in libido, genital shrinkage, and changes in genital shape. Millich developed Peyronie’s disease shortly after discontinuing finasteride, although a direct causal link remains unconfirmed.
Calls for Vigilance and Further Research
While some studies suggest a possible connection between finasteride and Peyronie’s disease, researchers emphasize the need for additional research to establish a definitive link. Health authorities have urged men using finasteride to remain vigilant for potential psychiatric and sexual side effects.