For many men, having hair is inextricably linked to feelings of self-confidence, vitality, attractiveness and youth.

When men begin to lose their hair  it can deliver a blow to one’s self-esteem. Going bald is something most men do not look forward to as they age.

For this reason, a large group of men begin to search for various hair loss remedies, such as Propecia or Proscar, to stall their hair loss, to aid in future hair loss prevention, and to assist in hair regrowth.

Hair Loss Remedies

Medication, surgery and hairpieces are the most common ways to address male pattern baldness. Certain alternative therapies such as laser and supplement use are also used, but not as often or with as much success as the other methods.

By far, medication is the most common way to treat hair loss in men. One of the most popular treatments is an oral medication Propecia (finasteride). While it was thought that Propecia might slow down or stop hair loss, it has actually promoted hair growth in some men and is not used solely for hair loss prevention.

What is Propecia/Proscar?

Propecia is the brand name for the drug finasteride, when it is prescribed as a male pattern baldness treatment. When finasteride is prescribed as to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia, or an enlarged prostrate, it is sold under the brand name Proscar.

The FDA approved finasteride as Proscar in 1992. In 1997, the FDA added male pattern baldness to the drug’s indications, and Merck began selling it as Propecia. The pharmaceutical giant Merck currently sells and manufactures both Propecia and Proscar.

Propecia works by inhibiting a man’s production of 5-alpha reductase (5a-R) — a natural enzyme present in the scalp, skin, epididymis, and prostate gland that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which causes male pattern baldness.

Potential Dangers of Propecia

Propecia may seem like the ideal treatment for many men. It is simple, more affordable than alternatives, allows you to grow your own hair and for many, it works. However, there is a huge downside that many men experience that is not clearly labeled on the drug inserts when men make the decision to use Propecia as a treatment.

Many men do not experience negative Propecia side effects while on treatment, and only experience the negative side effects upon stopping the drug. “Post Finasteride Syndrome” is the name given to men who experience these side effects after stopping the drug. These include but are not limited to:

• Sexual problems including: decreased arousal, low sexual drive, erectile dysfunction, shrinkage and numbness of penis/scrotum, reduced ejaculate, dulled orgasm
• Gynecomastia (male development of female-like breasts)
• Fatigue and insomnia
• Metabolism issues
• Skin issues
• Depression, anxiety, thoughts of suicide
• Impaired memory and cognition
• Muscle atrophy, weakness and twitching

Many men do not realize how serious their health issues can become from using and discontinuing Propecia. Before deciding on this treatment, men should research their options fully before making a decision that could lead them to experience more than they anticipated in beginning a hair loss treatment.

Propecia Lawsuit Information

If you have suffered side effects from using Propecia or from discontinuing its use, you may have a legal claim. Propecia lawyers are available to provide a complimentary, confidential consultation to discuss your unique situation.