New FDA Warnings on Propecia
The results of two studies have prompted the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to issue new warnings on certain prostate drugs including Propecia, the popular male pattern baldness drug; according to the safety announcement, patients who take finasteride (propecia) and dutasteride have a higher chance of being diagnosed with high-grade prostate cancer. Currently, there are 5 million men taking these 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (5-ARIs) to treat an enlarged prostate.
Many men have already begun seeking damages against the pharmaceutical giant Merck & Co. due to the injuries they have sustained from taking Propecia. They allege the drug maker failed to warn them about the sexual side effects associated with Propecia.
Propecia Study
The men are not alone in their claims. The sexual side effects of Propecia (finasteride) have been well-documented in recent months. A study published by the Journal of Sexual Medicine in March reported that a number of men experienced severe sexual side effects from taking the hair loss drug. About the study:
- Researchers interviewed 71 men, ages 21-46, who took Propecia
- The men interviewed complained of sexual side effects from taking Propecia
- 94% of these men developed low libido
- 92% developed erectile dysfunction
- 92% developed decreased arousal
- 69% developed problems with orgasms after taking the hair loss drug for an average of 28 months
- A small percentage of men experienced symptoms even after they stopped taking the medication
Other Propecia Side Effects
Other Propecia side effects may include:
- High-grade prostate cancer
- Impotence
- Nipple discharge
- Sexual anhedonia (loss of pleasure during orgasm)
- Anxiety attacks
Finasteride use has also been linked to:
- Male breast cancer
- Breast tenderness
- Gynecomestica (enlarged breast tissue in men)
About Propecia
- Approved by the FDA in 1992
- Used to treat male-pattern baldness
- Main active ingredient is finasteride (a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor)
- 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors have been linked to erectile dysfunction, impotence, loss of sexual desire, and depression
- In 2008, Propecia sales earned $429 million for Merck & Co.
Contact an Experienced Product Liability Attorney
Thomas J. Henry Injury Attorneys are leaders in the area of product liability litigation. Our Defective Drug and Products Division has extensive knowledge and resources in order to represent our clients efficiently and aggressively. We represent a multitude of people who are battling against manufacturers of medical devices and/or defective pharmaceuticals.
Your choice does matter. If you or a loved one has suffered serious injuries because of Propecia, call Thomas J. Henry Injury Attorneys immediately. We are available 24/7, nights and weekends.
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