Propecia Side Effects

 

For men with enlarged prostates, the development of the drug finasteride appeared to be a welcome advancement in medicine. In the 1970s, it was discovered that the use of an antiandrogen could block testosterone from converting to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone which leads to the enlargement of the prostate. With lower DHT levels, men are able to avoid having an enlarged prostate and thus avoid many of the painful conditions with which it is associated. In 1992, Merck & Co. developed the antiandrogen finasteride into a medication which it named Proscar. Proscar is sold in 5 mg tablets and is frequently prescribed to help men with enlarged prostates.

Adverse Effects

Unfortunately, it has become clear over the years that many individuals who have taken Proscar have also been diagnosed with sexual dysfunction and other sexual side effects that appear to be irreversible. These side effects include a loss of libido, erectile dysfunction, gynecomastia, Peyronie's disease, genital shrinkage, disfigurement, and a failure of the endocrine system. While these side effects were apparent to many medical professionals and tests were performed on these medications, Merck failed to initially report on potential side effects, resulting in even more men who were unaware of the risks posed by this potentially harmful drug.

Alternatives to Proscar

For men with enlarged prostates, Proscar may seem like the only option. However there are other choices available, and the risk of developing sexual side effects may make it necessary to go with the alternatives. These include:

• Alpha blocking prescriptions
• Transurethral resection of the prostate surgery
• Transuerthral incision of the prostate surgery
• Prostatectomy
• Balloon urethroplasty
• Taking time – one third of mild prostate enlargement clears up on its own

Unlike many drugs that have adverse side effects, discontinuing the use of Proscar has failed to undo the side effects in men who have taken the drug and ceased using it. While Merck initially included a warning that the active ingredient finasteride could cause decrease libido and possible erectile dysfunction, it failed to estimate the startlingly large number of men who would be affected and the incredibly important fact that the effects persisted after discontinued use.

Legal Recourses

If you or someone you love has been harmed by the adverse side effects of Proscar or any drug containing finasteride, consulting a Proscar lawyer can help you pursue compensation for your damaged health. While it is impossible for money to completely make up for the damage done to your sexual health, financial compensation can cover the medical costs associated with your side effects and greatly improve your quality of life. No one should be subject to pain and suffering caused by an irresponsible pharmaceutical company. If you or a loved one has been harmed by Proscar, don't hesitate to seek the compensation that you need.