Dr Lam's Hair Restoration Forum

[dhaber]

Dr. Lam --

I am a 25 year old male with early hair thinning. My dermatologist prescribed me Propecia. However, after reading numerous articles online about potential persistent sexual side effects I am terrified of taking this drug.

I noticed your blog post here from several months ago:

http://www.hairtx.com/dr-lams-blog/persistent-sexual-dysfunction-with-finasteride-a-new-study/

I'm wondering if you have any more information on this? Did the ISHRS ever issue a position statement on this?

[dr. lam]

the ISHRS position statement is still that they are pending any formal comment other than there has been reports by users of this problem. unfortunately, given the legal climate we live in, i have my patients sign a 4-page consent before they take it. at the recent meeting in Anchorage, there are other reports such as possible breast cancer linkage and also mood disorders. to be honest, i have only had one patient with reportedly permanent sexual side effects. do i believe that it can be possible? yes. however, i have not seen it in my practice. i think the reported incidence of even sexual side effects of less than 2% is accurate. the other unfortunate fact is that there are really few medications out there that have the power and ability to limit hair loss and regrow some vellus hairs other than finasteride and minoxidil.
best,
sml