Millions of men deal with hair loss in their lifetimes, some sooner than later. It seems that this billion-dollar industry is occupied by many different types of remedies from snake oils to surgeries that implant hair into the (now) unoccupied follicles. To some men this experimentation in curtailing an ever clogging shower drain is expensive and emotionally exhausting.
That’s when they often turn to their doctor for an answer. Their doctor then turns to what they know, prescription drugs such as Propecia, for the remedy. Unfortunately, after Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval and a multi-million dollar ad campaign, both patients and doctors are finding that the Propecia side effects are very real and potentially very permanent.
What is Propecia (Finasteride)?
Propecia is marketed as a drug that stops hair loss in men. Finasteride is the active ingredient in Propecia and it acts as a Androgen inhibitor. Androgen, such as testosterone, is a general term for male sex hormones that produce male sexual characteristics. These hormones are important to the healthy functioning of many parts of the male body.
Finasteride was originally approved by the FDA to treat enlarged prostate. It was administered in large doses as an aggressive treatment for this common, but dangerous ailment in males. It was also found to prevent hair loss. Thus, after a series of trials, global pharmaceutical conglomerate Merck patented it in small doses as Propecia and started hawking it on the global market.
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Propecia (Finasteride) Side Effects
Erectile Dysfunction – In initial trials, Merck found less than 2% to 4% rate of sexual side effects. However, subsequent independent studies have shown much higher levels. One prospective randomized study published in the First International Journal of Andorology showed a whopping 22% increase in patients using Finasteride. Why the inequity in data? So Merck could get it approved, why else?
The Propecia erectile dysfunction side effect is perhaps the most contested by the pharmaceutical company that seems to be in a constant fight with both the FDA and customers over the plausibility of their extensive list of drugs. However it is also one of the longest lasting, because some men have found that the side effects are permanent.
Hundreds of men who started taking Propecia found that their libido lowering and their ability to get an erection waning. Slowly their sexual desire slips away. Once the patient has discovered the impact of this side effect, some have chosen to stop treatment. Some have found that their libido rebounds, others have found that their sex life has been stolen from then for life, seriously effecting their quality of life.
Cancer – There are many things that cause cancer as we know. There have been studies testing the Propecia cancer side effect connection. One study involving more than 3100 men found no connection to prostate cancer and another study further concluded that it could help. However, breast cancer in men is a different story. The studies are limited, but may show an increased chance of male breast cancer. Some men have experienced breast enlargement. Further tests are required.
Propecia side effects:
- High-Grade Prostate Cancer
- Enlarged Breasts
- Allergic Reaction caused by a Drug
- Abnormally Low Blood Pressure
- Fluid Retention in the Legs, Feet, Arms or Hands
- Decreased Amount of Semen Upon Ejaculation
- Altered Interest in Having Sexual Intercourse
- Itching
- Hives
- Rash
- Breast Cancer in a Male Patient
- Depression
- Testicular Pain
- Problem with Ejaculation
Wational Propecia Lawyers
The lasting effects of Propecia could considerably lower the victim’s quality of life and potentially cause a life threatening cancer. Merck may not have given the proper indication of the severity of these side effects. These serious consequences are not worth stopping hair loss. Please consult your physician for further questions.
If you or a loved one are taking Propecia or any other derivative of Finasteride it is important that you contact legal council that has experience in protecting patients from giant pharmaceutical companies. Call Phillips Law Firm for a consultation on your legal options.
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