A new study finds that the popular drug, finasteride, can cause erectile dysfunction in some men, according to a UK study published today inThe Journal of Sexual Medicine.
The study, led by scientists from University College London (UCL), was conducted by the University of Oxford’s UCL Institute for Male Sexual Health and is now being presented at the annual meeting of the American Sexual Medicine Association (ASMA) in San Francisco. Researchers from the UCL Urologic Society of London, the University of Southampton and the University of Nottingham conducted the study.
Finasteride, sold under the brand name Propecia as Proscar, is one of the few oral medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of male sexual dysfunction, according to a letter published inThe drug, which is also sold under the brand name Proscar, works by reducing levels of dihydrotestosterone, or DHT, which is responsible for male pattern baldness.
Researchers found that the drug significantly affected men’s erections, with the average age of onset of erections being 50. In addition, men taking the drug experienced a lower incidence of ejaculation, as compared to those taking placebo. The lower incidence of ejaculation was also found to be in line with the effect of the drug on the blood circulation in the penis.
Finasteride’s side effect profile and the drug’s mechanism of action are similar to those of other finasteride drugs, including minoxidil, dutasteride, and finasteride. However, the study’s findings were based on post-marketing reports from around the world that suggest the drug may interact with some antidepressants, among other side effects.
Finasteride has long been used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia, also known as androgenetic alopecia, or male pattern baldness. In some cases, men have reported an enlarged prostate.
In the study, the researchers found that the drug could significantly affect the blood supply to the penis, with the average age of onset of erections being 51. The lower rate of ejaculation in men taking the drug compared to those taking placebo being similar to the effect of the drug on the blood circulation in the penis. The researchers found that men taking the drug experienced a lower incidence of ejaculation.
The results of the study were published today in
Source:
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May 5, 2015
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Introduction to Propecia
Propecia, also known by its generic name finasteride, is a medication primarily used to treat male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia). It belongs to the class of drugs known as 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors. It works by blocking the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a hormone that plays a significant role in the development and progression of male pattern baldness. By inhibiting the conversion of testosterone into DHT, Propecia reduces the production of DHT, leading to reduced hair loss and increased hair growth in affected areas. It is important to note that Propecia may cause side effects such as decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and decreased semen volume. These side effects are usually reversible upon discontinuation of the medication.
Mechanism of Action
Propecia works by inhibiting the action of 5-alpha-reductase, the enzyme responsible for converting testosterone into DHT. By blocking this conversion, Propecia reduces the levels of DHT in the scalp, leading to a decrease in hair loss and an increase in hair growth. By inhibiting the action of 5-alpha-reductase, Propecia reduces the levels of DHT in the body, leading to decreased levels of DHT, which in turn, decreases hair loss and increases hair growth. Propecia is primarily used to treat male pattern baldness, and its effectiveness varies among individuals. For instance, some men may experience decreased hair growth while others may have thicker hair. Additionally, some men may experience reduced libido or erectile dysfunction while others may experience improved sexual performance. It is important to note that the efficacy of Propecia is influenced by the underlying cause of the condition. For instance, men who experience hair thinning or balding due to conditions such as certain types of prostate enlargement, liver disease, or hereditary factors may require more frequent dosing due to its reduced side effects. Additionally, Propecia may also be used to treat male pattern baldness or alopecia, and its effectiveness varies among individuals.
Precautions and Contraindications
It is important to note that Propecia is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of male pattern baldness. It is also not approved for the prevention or treatment of high blood pressure or heart disease. It is recommended to use Propecia with caution, as it may cause side effects such as decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and decreased semen volume. Additionally, Propecia may interact with other medications, including antifungal drugs, antibiotics, and certain psychiatric medications. It is also important to inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing conditions you have, including liver or kidney disease, heart disease, or diabetes.
Dosage
The typical dosage of Propecia is 1 mg per day, which should be taken orally once daily. However, it is important to follow the prescribed dosage and duration of treatment as directed by your healthcare provider. The dosage may vary depending on factors such as the patient’s age, weight, and medical history. It is important to complete the entire course of treatment, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished. Propecia is available as a generic drug. It is important to use the product responsibly and in accordance with local regulations to maximize its benefits.
Side Effects
Like all medications, Propecia can cause side effects. Some of the most common side effects of Propecia include sexual dysfunction, breast tenderness, hair loss, and decreased libido. While these side effects are usually mild and reversible, they can be bothersome and may require medical attention. Some men may experience erectile dysfunction, decreased libido, and an increase in semen volume. Some men may experience more serious side effects such as decreased ejaculate volume, increased ejaculate size, or decreased semen volume. It is important to note that the severity of side effects can vary from person to person, and they are generally not immediate or persistent. It is important to discuss any concerns or side effects with your healthcare provider before starting Propecia. Regular monitoring of your sexual health and any changes in libido or sexual ability may be necessary.
Cost
The cost of Propecia can vary significantly depending on the dosage and location. The average retail price for a 1 mg tablet is around $30 to $50 for a bottle. However, prices can be significantly higher for larger quantities or for generic versions.
Last updated 28 February 2022
No. While Boots is the mostubiquitoushigh-street pharmacy in the UK, it is often not the cheapest option for many medicines, and not for men requiring Propecia to treat.
Currently (March 2022)Boots sell finasteride tablets from 82p each– this is for generic finasteride 1mg, not branded Propecia from Merck. Boots sell Propecia from £1.19 per tablet.
To buy Propecia from Boots you will need to register with the Boots Hair Loss Online Clinic, and complete a medical questionnaire. After 2 days you can either pick-up your order from a Boots store or local Post Office, or have it delivered
Dr Fox also provides a mail order optionfor just 38p per tablet(plus small prescription fee and P& P). Dr Fox also provides.From online doctor and pharmacy.
| Supplier | 28 tablets | 56 tablets | 84 tablets | 168 tablets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dr FoxGeneric finasteride | £12.20 | £21.50 | £31.20 | £58.80 |
| Branded Propecia | £42.40 | £81.70 | £108.40 | £214.00 |
| Boots Pharmacy | £51.00 | £91.00 | £110.00 | £200.00 |
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Propecia 1mg tablets are prescription-only medicine for the treatment of male pattern hair loss and contains the active ingredientfinasterideIt is a daily tablet usually taken for many years, so cost savings can be significant. Propecia is sold in packs of 28 (4 weeks) or 84 (12 weeks).
Finasteride 1mg should not be confused with finasteride 5mg. Finasteride 5mg is used for the treatment of benign prostate cancer.
Propecia is a brand name for finasteride 1mg. Propecia lost its patent protection in allowing lower cost generics to be licenced for sale in the UK. Generic finasteride 1mg tablets and Propecia tablets are.
For further details please read:
Topical (minoxodil 5%) foam or lotion applied to the scalp twice daily is the only other effective hair loss treatment, and can be used at the same time as Propecia.
Men can also visit their GP or private doctor to obtain aprivate prescription for Propecia, and take that paper prescription into a Boots store. Doctors will charge for private prescriptions, usually £8-£20 but this can be much higher.
If you have a private paper prescription for 84 x Propecia 1mgtablets (12 weeks worth) prices are:
If you already have a private paper prescription you can post to our pharmacy ().
Prices withou say that indeed so – Dr Fox prices eye-arrowingichever the result is – and and and and and and and and and and and and and and and and and and and were the the the price with with with with with with with with with with with with (£9.For more information about this drug, please see the drug information section below.
Propecia contains an active ingredient called finasteride. Finasteride blocks an enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT causes hair follicles to shrink and grow, which can cause male pattern baldness, an enlargement of the prostate, and a decrease in the volume of semen. The dose of Propecia is based on the amount of finasteride in the bloodstream.
When a man has sex with someone who has been on Propecia for a few years, his body will produce more DHT. However, it doesn't stop this process, as DHT is a very strong inhibitor of the production of testosterone. DHT causes hair follicles to shrink, which can cause male pattern baldness, an enlargement of the prostate, and a decrease in the volume of semen.
The most common side effects of Propecia are:
If you experience any of the above symptoms, contact your healthcare provider to make sure that the medication is working. There may be some side effects that may not be listed in this article. If they're still not gone, please talk with your doctor.
For more information about this drug, including how to use it, please see the drug information section below.
This article has been medically reviewed and updated for drug information. For more information, please see the drug information section below.
The information provided on this page has been reviewed and updated by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
Information about other drugs on this page has been reviewed and updated by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
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