The Physician’s Desk Reference (PDR) states that the side effects of finasteride,(Proscar/Propecia) occur in less than 2% of the users. Physicians who specialize in the treatment of hair loss typically tell a different story-that the reported side effects from their patients are more in the 30-40% range.
Many who do report side effects, especially in the area of sexual functioning, are often dismissed as yielding to the power of suggestion and essentially creating “placebo” side effects. Although there clearly is a placebo phenomena in regards to both side effects and benefits, there is ample reason to conclude that the incidence of finasteride side effects goes well beyond the 2% reported (by the drug company that makes finasteride) in the PDR.
The “don’t confuse us with the facts” mainstream medical community stands by the “less than 2% incidence” reported in the PDR. Proscar has been on the market for 16 years, Propecia has been on the market for 10 years.
Gynecomastia, (breast enlargement in men) almost inconspicuously appeared on the side effect lists a few years ago. We have been helping men resolve this emotionally and cosmetically taxing side effect long before it appeared in the PDR, and based on the voluminous feedback we’ve gotten, we’ve concluded that this a not too uncommon occurrence.
There are now studies conclusively linking finasteride to depression and possibly cognitive deficits. For a more detailed look into that, click here:
Propecia, Depression, and Cognitive Dysfunction
If you are using, or have previously used, or are considering Propecia or Proscar (finasteride) an online support community, with an active forum exists that exclusively deals with finasteride side effects. It is highly recommended. Here’s the link: