Boston University researchers, working with colleagues at Lahey Clinic, have found that finasteride (also known as Propecia) may produce significant adverse effects in some individuals including loss of libido and erectile dysfunction.
The researchers suggest that caution should be used when prescribing finasteride to patients looking to slow hair loss – finasteride, say the Study’s authors, may produce persistent side effects in a number of young patients.
“Honest and open discussion with patients to educate them on these serious issues must be pursued prior to commencing therapy because, in some patients, these adverse effects are persistent and may be prolonged and patients do not recover well after discontinuation from drug use,” said Abdulmaged M. Traish, the Study’s lead author.
While some form of sexual dysfunction was thought to affect a small minority of patients, the magnitude of adverse effects on sexual function remains ill-defined. The Study’s authors have suggested that additional clinical and preclinical studies are needed.
"Hair Science received high marks from the team at Bosley.
