The Devastating Impact of Propecia
– How Finasteride is Ruining Thousands of Lives

Millions of people worldwide take Finasteride, unaware of its potentially irreversible and life-altering side effects. Promoted as a safe solution for hair loss, pharmaceutical companies and telehealth providers often downplay or omit these risks, failing to inform consumers about the potential for devastating consequences. This lack of transparency is leading thousands of men into despair as they grapple with the unforeseen impacts of this drug.

The problem in numbers Join PFS patient registry

What You Need to Know About Finasteride

Finasteride causes higher rates of suicidality in men between 18-44 years

Finasteride can cause an irreversible multi-systemic disease called PFS

Thousands of lawsuits highlight severe unaddressed Finasteride side effects.

EMA is currently considering banning Finasteride in Europe

How Pharma and Telehealth Companies Hide the Devastating Risks of Propecia (Finasteride)

Pharmaceutical companies and telehealth platforms downplay Finasteride’s dangers to protect profits. They present it as a safe hair-loss solution while burying reports of severe side effects like depression, suicidal ideation, infertility, and persistent sexual dysfunction. Marketing strategies often focus on trivialising risks, using vague language like “rare side effects,” while failing to disclose the full extent of harm reported by patients, keeping life-altering side effects hidden from the public eye.

What is Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS)

Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS) is a serious condition affecting some men after stopping Finasteride (Propecia). The condition can also occur after taking other 5ar-inhibitors such as Dutasteride, Lion’s Mane and Saw Palmetto. PFS includes persistent sexual dysfunction (erectile dysfunction, low libido, genital numbness), neurological symptoms (depression, anxiety, brain fog), and physical issues (chronic fatigue, muscle wastage). These debilitating effects often continue long after the drug is discontinued, disrupting relationships, careers, and overall quality of life. PFS is thought to result from hormonal imbalances and epigenetic changes caused by Finasteride’s suppression of DHT, a vital androgen.

Reported Adverse Side Effects from Finasteride

Figures correct at time of writing (01/12/24)

USA & Canada (FDA)

23105

Actual number could be more than 10 times higher*

EU (EMA)

8321

Actual number could be more than 10 times higher*

UK (MHRA)

2350

Actual number could be more than 10 times higher*

* Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are underreported, with only 6–10% of cases documented due to inconsistent systems, incomplete data, and low awareness. For Finasteride, poor coordination between regulatory bodies and fragmented reporting make it hard to know the true scale of harm.

The FDA reports 23105 cases, but using UK estimates of underreporting, this could mean over 474000 actual cases. WHO lists 21716, but regional data often shows much higher numbers. For instance, UK reports are 308% higher than the EMA’s records. These inconsistencies make it nearly impossible to fully understand the impact of Finasteride.

Sources:

Drug Regulators and Industry Ties: A Hidden Conflict of Interest?

Drug regulators are tasked with safeguarding public health, but troubling evidence reveals their close financial ties to the pharmaceutical companies they oversee. With much of their funding coming directly from the industry, conflicts of interest are inevitable. Decisions are often fast-tracked based on incomplete data provided by the companies themselves, while advisory panels include experts with industry links. The result? Drugs are approved with less rigorous safety checks, putting patients at risk. Critics are calling for urgent reforms, demanding greater transparency, independent reviews, and accountability. The pressing question remains: are these agencies truly protecting the public—or serving corporate interests?

Source: From FDA to MHRA: Are drug regulators for hire?

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SIDEfxHUB PFS & PSSD Registry

The dashboard below displays the current number of PFS and PSSD patients registered in the SIDEfxHUB database, highlighting our growing community and collective effort to support research, awareness, and advocacy.

PFS Patients

5287

Join the registry now

PSSD Patients

7087

Join the registry now

Last update: November 2024

Finasteride in the Media

Personal Stories from PFS Patients

Hear the devastating stories from other PFS patients on Moral Medicine YouTube channel.

Sam’s life with Post Finasteride Syndrome

Damon’s Battle with Post-Finasteride Syndrome

How Finasteride Shattered Mark’s Life

The Devastating Effects of Propecia (Finasteride)

Finasteride & Post-Finasteride Syndrome

Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS) is a severe and persistent condition that can affect men after stopping Finasteride, a drug commonly used to treat androgenetic alopecia (hair loss) and benign prostatic hyperplasia. Despite discontinuing the drug, individuals with PFS experience a range of debilitating symptoms across physical, sexual, neurological, and psychological domains. These symptoms often persist for months, years, or even indefinitely, significantly impairing the quality of life.

Key Symptoms of PFS

1. Sexual Dysfunction:

Erectile Dysfunction: Persistent difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.
Low Libido: Drastically reduced or complete loss of sexual desire.
Genital Numbness: Decreased sensation or complete numbness in the penis and testicles.
Reduced Semen Volume: Noticeable reduction in ejaculate amount.
Anorgasmia: Inability to achieve orgasm, even during sexual activity.
Testicular Shrinkage: Reduction in testicular size in some cases.

2. Neurological Symptoms:

Brain Fog: Difficulty concentrating, impaired focus, and mental fatigue.
Memory Loss: Difficulty recalling recent events or retaining new information.
Cognitive Decline: A general reduction in mental sharpness and processing speed.
Insomnia: Difficulty falling or staying asleep, or unrefreshing sleep.
Headaches: Chronic or intermittent headaches not experienced prior to taking Finasteride.

3. Psychological Symptoms:

Severe Depression: Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and emotional numbness.
Anxiety and Panic Attacks: Heightened worry, fear, or sudden episodes of intense panic.
Emotional Blunting: Inability to feel emotions, such as joy, sadness, or love.
Suicidal Ideation: Thoughts of self-harm or suicide, often linked to feelings of hopelessness.

4. Physical Symptoms:

Chronic Fatigue: Persistent exhaustion not alleviated by rest.
Muscle Weakness: Reduced strength and stamina, sometimes progressing to atrophy.
Muscle Atrophy: Noticeable loss of muscle mass over time.
Testicular Pain: Aching or sharp pain in one or both testicles.
Joint Pain: Discomfort or pain in joints, reducing mobility.
Bone Loss: Reduced bone density, increasing the risk of fractures.
Hair Loss: Paradoxically, some men experience accelerated hair loss post-Finasteride.

5. Hormonal Imbalances:

Low Testosterone Levels: Persistent hypogonadism (low testosterone) even after stopping the drug.
DHT Suppression: Continued reduction in dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels.
Gynecomastia: Development of breast tissue in men (male breast enlargement).
Weight Fluctuations: Unexplained weight loss or gain.

6. Cardiovascular and Metabolic Issues:

Palpitations: Sensations of irregular or rapid heartbeats.
Cold Intolerance: Feeling unusually cold, potentially linked to thyroid disruption.
Hypoglycemia: Symptoms of low blood sugar in some cases.

Long-Term Consequences of PFS

The precise mechanisms underlying PFS remain unclear, but research suggests several potential causes, including:

Hormonal Disruption: Suppression of DHT and alterations in testosterone metabolism.
Epigenetic Changes: Modifications in gene expression, particularly in androgen receptor-related genes.
Neurological Damage: Reduction in neurosteroids essential for brain and nervous system function.
Tissue-Specific Changes: Abnormalities in tissues like penile skin, nerves, and bone.

These symptoms often devastate a person’s quality of life, severely impacting their physical health, mental well-being, relationships, and career. Many men with PFS report feelings of isolation and despair, compounded by a lack of understanding and support from the medical community.

The Challenges of Recognition and Treatment

PFS is often under-recognized and dismissed by healthcare professionals due to a lack of awareness or skepticism about its validity. This forces patients to advocate for themselves, navigate uncharted medical territory, and seek experimental or alternative treatments with varying success.

The Need for Awareness and Research

PFS is a complex condition that affects every aspect of an individual’s life. While awareness is growing, much more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind PFS and develop effective treatments. Early recognition, support, and advocacy are essential to improving outcomes for those affected by this debilitating condition.

Finasteride & Erectile Dysfunction

Finasteride is strongly linked to erectile dysfunction (ED), a well-documented side effect of the drug. While many patients are told that this condition is temporary, an alarming number report that their ED persists even after discontinuing the medication—a hallmark of Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS).

How Does Finasteride Cause ED?

Hormonal Disruption:
Finasteride blocks the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone critical for sexual function. The resulting imbalance can impair libido and the physiological processes required for erections.
Neurosteroid Reduction:
By inhibiting 5-alpha reductase, Finasteride also lowers levels of neurosteroids like allopregnanolone, which are vital for brain and nervous system health. This can disrupt the signaling pathways needed for sexual performance.
Potential Nerve Damage:
Studies have suggested that Finasteride may impair penile nerve function, further contributing to erectile difficulties.

Is ED Caused by Finasteride Reversible?

In many cases, erectile dysfunction resolves after stopping Finasteride. However, for some individuals, the condition becomes persistent or even irreversible, a defining feature of PFS. This can leave men with long-term or permanent sexual dysfunction, severely impacting their quality of life.

What Are the Symptoms of ED in PFS?

Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection
Reduced penile sensitivity
Lack of morning or spontaneous erections
Emotional distress due to sexual dysfunction

Finasteride & Low Libido

Finasteride is known to cause low libido (reduced sexual desire), one of its most commonly reported side effects. While many patients are informed that this condition is temporary, a significant number experience persistent or even permanent low libido after stopping the medication, a symptom often associated with Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS).

How Does Finasteride Cause Low Libido?

Hormonal Disruption:
Finasteride reduces levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a crucial hormone for sexual desire in men. The suppression of DHT can lead to a dramatic decrease in libido.
Neurosteroid Imbalance:
By inhibiting 5-alpha reductase, Finasteride lowers neurosteroids like allopregnanolone, which are essential for mood regulation and sexual drive.
Psychological Impact:
The emotional toll of Finasteride’s side effects, such as erectile dysfunction and physical changes, can also contribute to diminished sexual interest.

Is Low Libido Reversible?

In some cases, libido returns to normal after discontinuing Finasteride. However, for others, the condition persists as part of PFS, leaving them with a chronic lack of sexual desire that profoundly impacts relationships and quality of life.

What Are the Symptoms of Low Libido in PFS?

Lack of sexual interest or desire
Difficulty becoming aroused
Emotional detachment during intimacy
Absence of sexual thoughts or fantasies

Finasteride & Male Fertility

Finasteride can significantly impact male fertility by altering hormonal balances necessary for healthy sperm production. The drug works by suppressing DHT (dihydrotestosterone), a hormone derived from testosterone. While this reduction helps treat hair loss, it also disrupts critical processes in the reproductive system.

Effects on Sperm: Men taking Finasteride often report decreased sperm count, reduced motility (movement), and poor sperm morphology (shape and structure). This can make conception more difficult or even impossible.
Semen Volume: The drug is known to reduce semen volume, further contributing to infertility concerns.
Long-Term Issues: Alarmingly, these effects can persist even after stopping the medication, suggesting permanent damage in some cases.

Studies highlight that many men experience no prior warning about these risks, with fertility issues often coming as a devastating surprise.

Finasteride & Depression

Finasteride has been strongly linked to depression in both clinical studies and user reports. Depression is one of the most alarming psychological side effects, often starting while on the drug and, in many cases, persisting long after discontinuation.

Mechanism: Finasteride suppresses DHT, which plays a crucial role in brain function, including mood regulation. The resulting hormonal imbalance can disrupt neurosteroid levels in the brain, leading to feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and emotional instability.
Severity: For some, this depression becomes severe, manifesting as major depressive disorder or dysthymia (persistent mild depression).
Underreported Risks: Many users report not being adequately warned about the mental health risks before starting Finasteride, leaving them unprepared for the emotional impact.
Real-Life Consequences: Cases of depression have disrupted relationships, careers, and lives, with some men reporting an inability to find pleasure in daily activities.

Given the psychological toll of this drug, it is critical to monitor mood changes closely while using Finasteride.

Finasteride & Sexual Symptoms

Finasteride is notorious for causing a range of sexual side effects, which can persist indefinitely in some individuals, even after stopping the drug. These symptoms are among the most distressing for patients, often impacting their relationships and overall quality of life.

Common Sexual Symptoms:

Erectile Dysfunction (ED):
Many users experience difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection, a side effect that can become permanent for some.
Low Libido:
A significant reduction or complete loss of sexual desire is frequently reported, leaving patients feeling emotionally disconnected.
Genital Numbness:
Reduced sensation or numbness in the genitals is a common symptom, making intimacy and sexual experiences unfulfilling.
Anorgasmia:
The inability to achieve orgasm, even during sexual activity, is another frustrating and under-discussed consequence.
Reduced Semen Volume:
Many patients report a noticeable decrease in the amount of semen produced, which can affect confidence and fertility.
Penile and Testicular Pain:
Discomfort or pain in the genital region is also reported, adding to the physical and emotional burden.

Long-Term Effects:

What makes these symptoms especially alarming is their persistence. In cases of Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS), sexual dysfunction often continues indefinitely, with no guaranteed treatment or reversal.

Finasteride & Anxiety

Finasteride has been linked to heightened anxiety in many users, often manifesting as severe and persistent symptoms. This side effect is both psychological and neurological, and it frequently occurs alongside other mental health issues like depression and brain fog.

How Finasteride Causes Anxiety:

Neurosteroid Disruption:
Finasteride inhibits the production of neurosteroids like allopregnanolone, which are critical for regulating mood and reducing stress. This imbalance can lead to heightened feelings of anxiety and panic.
Hormonal Imbalances:
The suppression of DHT can cause cascading hormonal disruptions that may impact mental stability and increase susceptibility to anxiety.
Physical Symptoms as Triggers:
Persistent sexual dysfunction, insomnia, and chronic fatigue caused by Finasteride can contribute to a sense of helplessness and exacerbate anxiety levels.

Reported Symptoms of Anxiety:

Panic attacks
Chronic worry and racing thoughts
Feeling on edge or hyper-alert
Physical symptoms like a racing heart, sweating, or shortness of breath

Long-Term Impact:

Anxiety caused by Finasteride often persists even after discontinuation, making it a hallmark of Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS). Many patients report feeling anxious about the permanence of their symptoms, which can compound the mental health burden.

Finasteride & Insomnia

Insomnia is a frequently reported side effect of Finasteride, with many users experiencing disrupted sleep patterns during and after use. Sleep disturbances can have cascading effects on mental and physical health, compounding the challenges faced by patients.

How Finasteride Leads to Insomnia:

Neurosteroid Imbalance:
Finasteride inhibits the production of neurosteroids like allopregnanolone, which play a vital role in promoting restful sleep and reducing stress. This disruption can lead to difficulties falling asleep or staying asleep.
Anxiety and Depression:
The psychological side effects of Finasteride, such as anxiety and depression, can further disrupt sleep cycles, making restful sleep elusive.
Chronic Pain or Discomfort:
Physical side effects like testicular pain or muscle aches may also contribute to insomnia by making it physically uncomfortable to sleep.

Reported Sleep Issues:

Difficulty falling asleep
Waking up frequently during the night
Feeling unrested even after a full night’s sleep
Nightmares or vivid, disturbing dreams

Long-Term Effects:

For individuals with Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS), insomnia often persists indefinitely, adding to the overall fatigue, brain fog, and mental health challenges associated with the condition.

Restful sleep is essential for recovery and overall well-being, making Finasteride’s impact on sleep a critical concern.

Finasteride & Suicidal Ideation

Finasteride has been associated with suicidal ideation, a deeply concerning and severe side effect. This risk has prompted investigations by regulatory bodies like the European Medicines Agency (EMA) to determine the extent of its impact on mental health.

Psychological Impact: Suicidal thoughts are believed to stem from a combination of factors, including Finasteride-induced depression, anxiety, and feelings of hopelessness caused by persistent side effects like sexual dysfunction and physical decline.
Persistent Effects: Even after discontinuing the drug, many patients report lingering mental health challenges, including thoughts of self-harm.
Documented Cases: Numerous cases of suicide and attempted suicide have been linked to Finasteride use, particularly among younger men who were otherwise healthy before taking the drug.
Underreported Danger: Many patients claim they were not adequately warned about the potential for severe mental health risks, leaving them unprepared for these devastating effects.

This is one of the most serious risks of Finasteride and highlights the need for greater awareness and more stringent regulatory warnings.

Finasteride & Brain Fog

Brain fog is one of the most common and debilitating neurological side effects reported by Finasteride users. It is described as a persistent state of mental cloudiness, making it difficult to focus, think clearly, or remember things. This symptom often begins while taking the drug and can persist long after discontinuation, particularly in cases of Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS).

How Finasteride Leads to Brain Fog:

Neurosteroid Suppression:
Finasteride inhibits the production of neurosteroids like allopregnanolone, which are crucial for cognitive function and mood stability. This disruption impairs brain processes.
Hormonal Imbalance:
The suppression of DHT affects the delicate hormonal balance necessary for optimal brain function, leading to cognitive dysfunction.
Inflammation and Stress:
Emerging research suggests Finasteride may contribute to neuroinflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, exacerbating cognitive impairments.

Common Symptoms of Brain Fog:

Difficulty concentrating
Poor memory or forgetfulness
Mental fatigue and reduced clarity
Trouble processing information or finding words

Impact on Daily Life:

Brain fog can make even simple tasks feel overwhelming, affecting work performance, decision-making, and overall quality of life. Many users report feeling like a “different person,” disconnected from their usual mental sharpness.

This symptom highlights the widespread effects Finasteride can have on mental health and underscores the need for greater awareness.

Finasteride & Muscle Weakness

Finasteride is linked to muscle weakness and atrophy, often reported by users as persistent or worsening over time, even after discontinuation. This troubling side effect can significantly impact physical strength, endurance, and overall quality of life.

How Finasteride Leads to Muscle Weakness:

Hormonal Imbalance:
By suppressing DHT, Finasteride disrupts testosterone balance, which plays a critical role in muscle maintenance, strength, and repair. Low testosterone and DHT levels can result in muscle atrophy.
Chronic Fatigue:
Muscle weakness is often compounded by fatigue, another common side effect of Finasteride, leaving users with reduced energy for physical activity.
Nerve Impairment:
Emerging research suggests that Finasteride may interfere with nerve function, which could contribute to muscle weakness and reduced coordination.
Bone and Joint Health:
Related effects, such as reduced bone density, can exacerbate muscle weakness by making physical movement more challenging.

Reported Symptoms:

Difficulty lifting weights or performing physical tasks
Loss of muscle mass and tone
Fatigue after minimal exertion
Generalized physical weakness

Long-Term Effects:

For individuals with Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS), muscle weakness can persist indefinitely, often worsening over time and impacting their ability to maintain an active lifestyle.

This side effect highlights Finasteride’s far-reaching impact on physical health, affecting not just hormonal balance but also musculoskeletal systems.

Finasteride & Testicular Pain

Testicular pain is a reported side effect of Finasteride, affecting some users during treatment and, in many cases, persisting even after discontinuation. This symptom can range from mild discomfort to severe, chronic pain that significantly impacts daily life.

How Finasteride Leads to Testicular Pain:

Hormonal Imbalance:
By suppressing DHT, Finasteride disrupts normal testosterone metabolism. This imbalance may lead to inflammation or dysfunction in the testes, resulting in pain.
Nerve Sensitivity:
Finasteride may alter the sensitivity of nerves in the genital region, contributing to pain or a sensation of heaviness in the testicles.
Prostatic Changes:
The drug’s effect on the prostate, including size reduction, may indirectly impact the surrounding structures, causing discomfort or referred pain in the testicles.

Reported Symptoms:

Aching or sharp pain in one or both testicles
Swelling or tenderness in the testicular area
A heavy or pulling sensation in the groin

Long-Term Concerns:

For some, testicular pain persists indefinitely and may be accompanied by other symptoms like low libido, genital numbness, or infertility. This symptom is particularly distressing as it interferes with both physical comfort and sexual health.

Testicular pain caused by Finasteride often goes unaddressed by medical professionals, leaving patients frustrated and searching for solutions.

Finasteride & Memory Loss

Memory loss is a concerning side effect reported by Finasteride users, particularly as part of the neurological symptoms associated with the drug. This impairment can range from mild forgetfulness to significant cognitive challenges that affect daily life and work performance.

How Finasteride Leads to Memory Loss:

Neurosteroid Disruption:
Finasteride suppresses neurosteroids like allopregnanolone, which are critical for brain function, including memory formation and recall.
Hormonal Imbalance:
By reducing DHT and affecting testosterone levels, Finasteride disrupts hormonal processes vital for cognitive health.
Inflammation and Stress:
Emerging research suggests that Finasteride may contribute to neuroinflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, impairing memory and other cognitive functions.
Persistent Neurological Effects:
Many patients report memory loss as a lingering symptom of Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS), persisting long after stopping the drug.

Reported Symptoms of Memory Loss:

Difficulty recalling recent events or conversations
Forgetfulness, even with simple tasks
A feeling of mental “fog” or disconnection
Trouble learning or retaining new information

Long-Term Effects:

Memory loss, combined with other cognitive symptoms like brain fog and difficulty concentrating, can significantly impact quality of life. These issues often leave patients feeling isolated, frustrated, and unable to function at their usual capacity.

Memory problems caused by Finasteride are an under-recognised issue that demands greater attention from the medical community.

The Hidden Long-Term Risks of Finasteride

Finasteride’s long-term safety remains unknown, as no comprehensive studies have been conducted. Pharmaceutical companies, like Merck, actively suppress evidence of harm, such as persistent sexual dysfunction, depression, and suicidal ideation, to protect profits.

Regulatory agencies have failed to demand independent follow-ups, leaving patients in the dark about the drug’s true risks. Real-world reports expose widespread, persistent damage, contradicting claims of safety. Patients deserve transparency and robust research to assess these dangers.

Dr. Anthonei Csoka

Biogerontologist and Associate Professor in the Department of Anatomy at Howard University

“PFS likely represents types of iatrogenic epigenetic damage previously unseen in human history. On the individual level, the consequences are catastrophic, and there may be population-level effects as well. Increasing our knowledge and understanding of these increasingly prevalent disorders is paramount.”

Source: Google Trends

The Growing Awareness of PFS

Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS) is gaining significant attention online, with a growing number of individuals sharing their experiences across forums, social media, and support groups. Triggered by the use of Finasteride, this condition has raised alarm and curiosity worldwide. Google search trends reveal a sharp rise in queries about PFS, reflecting increasing public awareness and the demand for accountability and research. This surge highlights the urgent need for scientific investigation into the causes of PFS and the development of effective treatments to address its debilitating effects.

Research on Finasteride & PFS

Finasteride-Induced Eye Toxicity: Serious Risks for Patients

Emerging research reveals that Finasteride, commonly prescribed for hair loss and prostate issues, may cause significant eye damage. Long-term use has been linked to blurred vision, dry eyes, and optic nerve dysfunction, as DHT, which the drug blocks, plays a vital role in eye health. Studies found macular damage, retinal abnormalities, and impaired visual processing in over 60% of patients examined. These findings highlight the need for caution and baseline eye exams for users. Finasteride’s impact extends beyond its intended effects, warranting greater awareness of these risks.

Read more about Finasteride and eye toxicity here

Finasteride’s and Cognitive Risks

Research highlights alarming risks of Finasteride, including potential cognitive decline. A study in Psychoneuroendocrinology found significant memory deficits, reduced sociability, and disrupted cholinergic activity in rats treated with the drug. Finasteride inhibits neurosteroids like allopregnanolone, vital for brain health, impairing functions such as memory, mood, and stress response. The cholinergic system disruption raises concerns about long-term cognitive effects, potentially linked to disorders like Alzheimer’s. These findings align with user reports of brain fog, memory loss, and emotional blunting, demanding further investigation and cautious use.

Learn more about the cognitive risks of Finasteride here.

Epigenetic Changes in PFS Patients: A Pilot Study

A pilot study reveals that Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS) patients show significant methylation of the SRD5A2 gene promoter in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), but not in blood. This tissue-specific epigenetic change may disrupt neuroactive steroid levels, potentially contributing to behavioral disturbances and persistent PFS symptoms. These findings suggest that finasteride treatment might induce lasting epigenetic changes, though further research is needed to confirm causality.

Learn more about the study here.

Neuroactive Steroids and PFS Symptoms

A study on Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS) patients highlights persistent sexual and mental health effects after discontinuing finasteride. Among 16 male participants, 8 were diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD), all experienced erectile dysfunction (ED), and some showed severe ED linked to pudendal nerve neuropathy. Neuroactive steroid analysis revealed decreased levels of pregnenolone, progesterone, and dihydrotestosterone, along with elevated testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone. These hormonal disruptions likely contribute to PFS symptoms, emphasizing finasteride’s profound and lasting impact on physical and mental health.