How Propecia Ruined Chris’ Boxing Career

My name is Chris, and I want to share my story about how Propecia devastated my health and boxing career over just three years.

Before starting on Propecia, my boxing record was strong at 7 wins, 5 by knockout, with only one loss. I had sparred over 1,000 rounds with many world-class fighters without ever being knocked down. I was known for my strength and ability to spar with fighters much heavier than myself without any issues.

However, everything changed when I began taking finasteride. Almost immediately, I noticed a dramatic decrease in my strength and power. I couldn’t take a punch from opponents, even those significantly lighter than me—something that had never happened before. More than just the physical decline, I couldn’t maintain an erection, a clear sign that my testosterone levels had plummeted. This was particularly concerning as it seemed to worsen with the strict dieting and rigorous training required for boxing.

The impact wasn’t just physical; it was psychological as well. As my performance in the ring suffered, so did my mental health. I experienced severe depression, compounded by the ridicule I faced in my hometown. From being a local boxing hero, I became a laughing stock, which was beyond awful.

From 2004 to 2007, taking finasteride was the biggest regret of my life. After starting on the drug, I never won another fight, losing all by knockout. Since stopping the drug, I have continued to struggle with low testosterone levels and reduced libido. My experience with this drug was a nightmare that I wouldn’t wish on anyone.

It’s essential for us as a community to stick together, support ongoing research, and spread awareness about this disease. By sharing our stories and uniting our voices, we can help drive the search for treatments that could return us to normal. Eventually, we will find a solution, but it requires all of us to stand together and be heard. Your story matters—let’s keep pushing forward together.