A recent study has concluded that there is a high level of association between the sexual side effects of Propecia (finasteride), a popular drug for hair loss treatment in men, and suicide attempts and completed suicides.

The study was featured in the medical journal Pharmacotherapy in July, where researchers from the University of British Columbia found what they feel is a strong correlation between men’s use of Propecia and suicidal behavior.

The researchers examined 4,910 reports submitted to the FDA over a period of 15 years, from 1998 to 2013. The reports are a part of FAERS, the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System, where individuals can file adverse medication reports to the government agency. Men who completed the reports were aged 18 to 45.

Among the complaints reported to FAERS, there were 577 claims of persistent sexual dysfunction and 39 suicidal ideation reports. Suicidal ideation is a broad term that encompasses fleeting to extensive suicidal thoughts, planning of suicide, and actual suicide attempts.

As the researchers looked more closely at the suicide attempt reports of Propecia users, they found that 87.2% of them, or 34 of the 39, also experienced sexual dysfunction side effects. Of those who attempted suicide, six died, 43% were disabled as a result of the attempt, 28% required medical intervention or hospitalization and 5% suffered from life-threatening injuries.

Severe Propecia Side Effects

Propecia has been associated with a number of serious side effects in men. Many men are surprised to encounter the severity of reactions that they have experienced, and are especially surprised to find that the effects often continue after they stop using the drug.

Persistent sexual dysfunction is the most commonly reported adverse event to occur from use of the drug. These side effects include, but are not limited to:

• Decreased sexual arousal
• Low sex drive
• Dulled orgasm
• Erectile dysfunction including inability to obtain or maintain an erection
• Penis/scrotum numbness or shrinkage
• Reduced ejaculate and other ejaculation disorders

In addition to the sexual impact, other serious side effects have been reported as well:

• Mood disorders including depression and anxiety
• Thoughts of suicide
• Male breast growth (gynecomastia)
• Fatigue
• Inability to fall or stay asleep
• Metabolism issues
• Acne or other skin issues
• Impaired cognition and memory
• Muscle atrophy

Propecia Lawsuits Allege Sexual Dysfunction and More

Many men have filed lawsuits against Propecia manufacturer Merck alleging that they suffered severe personal injury following the use of Propecia. The claims allege that Merck failed to warn consumers about the dangerous side effects that occur with Propecia use and continue beyond discontinuation of the drug.

Due to the large volume of complaints, the lawsuits were consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) under Judge John Gleeson in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York. Over 800 cases are pending at the federal level, and in New Jersey, where Merck’s headquarters are located, state courts have about 400 more cases pending.

Filing a Propecia Lawsuit

If you or loved one has suffered severe side effects from Propecia, you may be entitled to legal compensation for your personal injury. A Propecia attorney is available to review your case to assist you in determining your legal options at no charge to you.