Propecia Erectile Dysfunction

by admin on February 21st, 2012

Multiple studies have revealed a link between Propecia erectile dysfunction permanent side effects and the use of this medication for hair loss treatment. The manufacturer has traditionally claimed that sexual side effects, when they develop, are temporary and vanish soon after the drug is stopped. But researchers in a study published in the June 2011 edition of The Journal of Sexual Medicine found evidence that contradicts that claim. Their subjects showed signs of sexual dysfunction for an average of 40 months after the hair loss pill – known generically as finasteride – was discontinued.

The company that promotes the drug (Merck Pharmaceuticals) won FDA approval for it in 1997 for use in treating male pattern baldness. But it wasn’t until 2011 that the company updated its warning information to reflect the link between Propecia side effectsin men. Men have been exposed to the risk for years without their realization. A number of Propecia lawsuit claims filed by men suffering from erectile dysfunction allege the company failed to adequately warn them.

Erectile dysfunction is defined as an inability to produce or maintain an erection that is sufficient for sexual intercourse. Men who suffer from the condition often confront numerous emotional and relationship challenges. Below, we’ll present several nonsurgical therapies that can be used to minimize the effects of ED – at least, temporarily.

Oral Medications For Propecia Erectile Dysfunction Permanent Problems

Several drugs can be taken orally to help induce an erection. They include Cialis, Viagra, and Levitra, all of which are known as phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-V) inhibitors. Contrary to popular perception, these medications do not technically trigger an erection. Instead, they inhibit the action of the enzyme PDE-V.

This enzyme is found in the corpus cavernosum, two regions in the penile shaft that fill with blood during sexual arousal. It normally prevents erections, or causes them to dissipate, by breaking down the natural chemical cGMP. This chemical relaxes the muscles, and increase blood flow. By inhibiting PDE-V, finasteride prevents this from happening, allowing blood to flow into, and remain in, the corpus cavernosum. The result is an erection.

These drugs often cause minor side effects, such as headaches, flushing, lower back pain (primarily with use of Levitra), and occasionally, problems related to vision. PDE-V inhibitors have also been known to cause priapism, a medical emergency in which the penis remains erect for longer than 4 hours.

Penile Injections Of Alprostadil

In contrast to PDE-V inhibitors, injections of alprostadil can cause erections. The drug, also marketed as Caverject and Edex, is injected through a fine needle into the corpus cavernosum. It is usually introduced at the base of the penis, but can also be injected into its side. Its action improves blood flow, thereby causing the penis to become erect.

Alprostadil injections require between five and twenty minutes to have an effect. Erections last for nearly an hour. Although the drug is effective, it can produce side effects. Men might experience a dull pain in the penis during an erection. Also, repeated injections can cause scarring in the penile tissue. For this reason, patients are advised to periodically change the sides to which the drug is delivered.

Urethral Suppositories Of Alprostadil

Alprostadil can also be delivered as a urethral suppository. The drug is contained in pellet form inside a special applicator. The applicator is equipped with a thin neck, the end of which is inserted into the urethra. Once alprostadil has been delivered, the applicator is removed.

The drug is absorbed through the urethral tissue. It can produce an erection in as little as ten minutes. However, results are mixed among men. Unlike injections, which introduce alprostadil directly into the corpus cavernosum, delivery of the drug via a suppository causes much of it to reach the bloodstream. It is essentially wasted. Many men who try this form of therapy abandon it for penile injections or oral medications.

Propecia impotence permanent dysfunction can place an enormous emotional burden on men and their partners. If you have used the prescription hair loss treatment, and currently suffer from long-term sexual effects, you may be eligible to file a claim for compensation. Contact a Propecia lawsuit settlements attorney to discuss your case.