Propecia Side Effects In Men

by admin on February 10th, 2012

Many men who have used Propecia (also known by its generic name finasteride) to treat baldness have suffered from long-term sexual Propecia side effects in men. Until 2011, this was contrary to the information presented on the warning label applied to the drug in the U.S. For years, erectile dysfunction and diminished libido were thought to be short-term possibilities. That is, if either condition developed, it could be expected to vanish once the drug was stopped. This, at least, was the claim made by Merck Pharmaceuticals, the drug’s maker. Unfortunately, permanent Propecia erectile dysfunction is possible, and has impacted the lives of several men.

There remain numerous questions regarding the link between Propecia and persistent erectile dysfunction. We’ll address several of them below. If you have used the hair loss pill in the past, and are continuing to experience long-term sexual side effects, consider filing a Propecia lawsuit claim for compensation.

“What Causes Permanent Propecia Side Effects in Men?”

The exact mechanism by which finasteride causes long-term erectile dysfunction, lower sex drive, and less semen, is unknown. However, we know that finasteride is a 5-alpha reductase (5a-R) inhibitor. 5a-R is an enzyme that is responsible for converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a potent male sex hormone. Preventing its synthesis likely plays a major role in the development and persistence of sexual side effects.

“Is Erectile Dysfunction The Same As Impotence?”

Technically, erectile dysfunction and impotence refer to the same condition: an inability to achieve or sustain an erection. Thus, the two terms can be used interchangeably. The confusion lies in the fact that many people say “erectile dysfunction” when they actually mean premature ejaculation. The two conditions present differently, and are treated with different approaches.

Most people rightly equate impotence with erectile dysfunction. However, improperly equating the latter disorder with premature ejaculation causes confusion.

“What Options Exist To Treat The Problem?”

ED can be treated in a variety of ways. The most popular approach is to take oral medications, such as Viagra and Cialis. Some men opt to inject medications (e.g. papaverine, alprostadil, etc.) at the base of their penises to trigger erections. Others prefer to introduce alprostadil via a suppository into the urethra.

Another option is an external penis pump. This device creates a vacuum around the penis in order to draw blood into it. An internal penile pump can also be implanted. Penile implants and vascular surgery pose additional options.

“Can’t I Just Take Viagra Or Cialis To Cure ED?”

Not necessarily. Many men misunderstand how these medications work. Contrary to what many people believe, Viagra and similar drugs do not cause erections. They inhibit an enzyme called phosphodiesterase V (PDE5). This enzyme relaxes the muscles that keep blood in the penis during an erection. By inhibiting it, these medications ensure the muscles remain taut, and as a result, the penis remains engorged with blood. In other words, Viagra and Cialis improve the quality and duration of erections, but do not trigger them. Sexual stimulation is still necessary.

“How Do Penile Implants Work?”

Similar to an internal penile pump, a penile implant is surgically placed. Two flexible rods are installed within the shaft of the penis. The rods are implanted on the sides of the shaft inside the corpora cavernosa (chambers that become engorged with blood during an erection). Prior to sexual intercourse, the penis is manually adjusted to simulate an erection. The patient is able to control its duration.

Penile implants are less popular than other treatments for a few reasons. They are costly, can produce pain, and may lead to the deterioration of the penile tissue over time.

“Should I File A Propecia Lawsuit Claim?”

Men who have filed Propecia impotence permanent side effects lawsuits allege that Merck Pharmaceuticals should have informed them of the risk. The possibility of developing permanent sexual side effects as a result of using the drug was omitted from the U.S. warning label for nearly 15 years. If Merck knowingly neglected to warn the public, they should be held accountable for any injuries that resulted.

If you have experienced persistent Propecia erectile dysfunction, diminished sex drive, or decreased semen production, you may be eligible to file a claim against Merck. Contact a Propecia injury settlement attorney to discuss your case.