Hair loss medications can affect men's sexual health
Although the adverse side effects of these agents are thought to be minimal
March 2011
A new study has shown that 5a-reductase inhibitors, commonly used to
treat urinary problems in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia
(BPH) and found in popular medications to treat hair loss, can
produce, persistent erectile dysfunction (ED), depression and loss
of libido, even after the medication has been discontinued.
Researchers, led by Abdulmaged M. Traish, of Boston University
School of Medicine, examined data reported in various clinical
studies from the available literature concerning the side effects of
the 5 alpha reductase inhibitors, finasteride and dutasteride.
Prolonged adverse side effects on sexual function, such as ED,
depression and diminished libido, were reported by a subset of men.
Drug-related reduction in libido occurred in 4.2 pc and 1.8 pc of
patients in the dutasteride and placebo groups, respectively.
Reduced ejaculation and semen volume were also reported and in some
patients, these drugs were associated with depression.
Dr. Irwin Goldstein, editor-in-chief of The Journal of Sexual
Medicine, has seen and evaluated numerous such patients. He further
explained the importance of this study.
"Young men are being prescribed 5 alpha reductase inhibitors as hair
loss treatments that may negatively impact their sexual life,
possibly for a prolonged time after stopping the medication. Older
men with symptoms of lower urinary tract symptoms or fearful of
prostate cancer, now have to deal with new onset sexual and mental
health problems. The growing use of 5 alpha reductase inhibitors is
causing concerns."
The study has been published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine. (ANI)
Source
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