What is The Real Side Effect of Propecia
Q:
Dr. Mohebi, I had my consultation with you about two months ago and I’m still very interested in getting a hair transplant procedure done. My question and concern is about the propecia drug. I realize that we discussed the side-effects during my consultation and I understand your point of view, however, I am still reluctant to consider taking this medication becuase when I research the effects of the drug I get mixed responses. The link below is just one of many out there and definately makes me think twice about considering to take it. How will not taking the drug affect a hair transplant procedure and its results?
http://www.propeciasideeffects.com/
A:
This is a good question. The internet is full of contradicting information. However, you should stay away from things that are not scientific studies.
I personally have not seen any of those irreversible side effects with finasteride that they are claiming on that site. There is also no medical document to support those claims. The main study that was performed on the long term side effects of the finasteride proved that Propecia users do get better after one year of use. In addition, A number of patients experienced change while using libido Propecia. Below you can find a table that compares the side effects that were seen in Propecia and Placebo patients after one year of their use.
PROPECIA N=945 Placebo N=934
1.8 1.3 Decreased Libido
1.3 0.7 Erectile Dysfunction
1.2 0.7 Ejaculation Disorder
0.8 0.4 Drop in Volume of Ejaculate
1.2 0.9 Discontinued due to side effects
As you can see the medication was used for one year on almost 1000 patients while placebo was given to the other group. The difference between the two groups can be considered the real side effect. There has been no report of permanent sex drive effects from Propecia.