A popular hair loss drug and its lesser-known, rare and potentially life-altering side effects

madman · Mar 22, 2025

[Warning: This story contains discussion of suicide] For decades, millions of men have taken the prescription drug finasteride, often known by the brand name Propecia, to slow hair loss. But a Radio-Canada investigation breaks down the expert warnings about rare but life-altering side effects that persist after treatment stops — and allegations that drug developer Merck has downplayed the risks.

madman · Mar 22, 2025

Dr. Michael Irwig

Michael Irwig – The Post-Finasteride Syndrome Foundation

www.pfsfoundation.org

New paper from Dr Michael Irwig demonstrates dire clinical reality facing patients — PFSNetwork.org

A new paper from Dr Michael Irwig , who published the first study about long-term sexual dysfunction in patients reporting Post-Finasteride Syndrome, was published this week. The study, aimed at evaluating the beliefs of dermatologists about the adverse effects of finasteride, highlights the dire c

www.pfsnetwork.org

madman · Mar 22, 2025

Thread 'Post-finasteride syndrome - a true clinical entity?'

Feb 28, 2025

This review critically examines Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS), a condition eventually reported by men who have used finasteride for androgenetic alopecia or benign prostatic enlargement and experienced persistent adverse effects after discontinuation. We explore the clinical manifestations, including sexual dysfunction, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and physical changes, that collectively challenge both diagnosis and management. This review evaluates the evidence for PFS, discusses potential mechanisms including neurobiological alterations, genetic predispositions, and...

madman · Apr 13, 2025

Thread 'The rare but debilitating side effects of finasteride for hair loss.'

Apr 13, 2025

Great documentary by Canadian journalist Brigitte Noël.

Playing with the devil's candy can have dire consequences for many especially the genetically prone individuals suffering with PFS!

Finasteride —or Propecia, its most well-known brand name— is a medication taken by millions of men hoping to slow down hair loss. Yet this product is not without risk: over the past fifteen years, regulatory authorities have added numerous warnings about potential sexual dysfunction and depression, rare side effects that can persist for years after stopping...

BadassBlues · Apr 13, 2025

“Genetically prone “ That’s a major factor.

Search for Sources of Major PFS Symptoms Pinpoints 186 Brain Genes – The Post-Finasteride Syndrome Foundation

www.pfsfoundation.org

Guided_by_Voices · Apr 13, 2025

Antics with semantics in the above...

- 4% does not seem "rare"
- "Life altering" should be "life destroying"
- "persist for years" should likely be "permanent for most of those afflicted with no reliable cure"

Jerajera · Apr 13, 2025

At this point you have to be insane to do anything to block 5-ar. I don't understand people's priorities (hair vs potential permanent sexual dysfunction/depression).

madman · Apr 22, 2025

Thread 'Permanent Sexual Side Effects From Commonly Prescribed Medications'

Apr 22, 2025

In this enlightening episode, Dr. Irwin Goldstein discusses the often-overlooked sexual side effects of common medications such as birth control pills, SSRIs, and Finasteride. Dr. G elaborates on how these medications can lead to significant issues like sexual dysfunction, low libido, and even permanent conditions such as persistent SSRI-associated sexual dysfunction (PSSD) and permanent erectile dysfunction (ED) from Finasteride. The conversation highlights the critical need for awareness and informed decision-making regarding these medications...

madman · May 9, 2025

Thread 'If you suffer from post-SSRI, Post-Finasteride or Post-Accutane Syndrome'

May 9, 2025

Post-5-ARI, SSRI, SNRI, TCA, Isotretinoin Questionnaire

This survey aims to investigate the long-term effects experienced by individuals who have discontinued the use of finasteride, SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs, and retinoids. Your responses will help characterize post-drug syndromes and contribute to a better understanding of their symptoms and impact on...

oakland.az1.qualtrics.com

Research Study Title:

Interconnected Post-Drug Syndromes: Investigating the Impact of Retinoids, SSRIs, and Finasteride on Health and Well-being

Introduction

You are being asked to participate in a research study conducted by Dr. Kenneth Peters, Professor of Urology at Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine. Your decision to participate in this study is voluntary. You can choose to stop your participation at any time or skip any part of the study if you are not comfortable. Your decision...