Propecia, a popular drug used to treat hair loss, is suspected of causing unwanted sexual side effects for users.

In its first year on the market, more than 400,000 prescriptions were filled for Propecia in the United States alone. Most male hair loss is actually closely tied in with male hormones, specifically dihydrotestosterone, which is created from testosterone.

The active ingredient in Propecia, finasteride, works by interfering with the enzymes that turns testosterone into dihydrotestosterone. However, by interfering with androgens, hormones that are associated with “maleness,” Propecia may cause unintended side effects.

It has been alleged that men who take Propecia suffer an increased risk of serious sexual side effects including a decline in libido, erectile dysfunction, and problems ejaculating.

Based on data provide by Merck, both the FDA and Merck assured patients taking Propecia that sexual side effects from Propecia were temporary, or at the very least would go away once users stopped taking the drug. However, this may not be the case.

Longer-term follow-up studies and case reports have strongly suggested that Propecia sexual side effects may continue after patients stop taking Propecia. One case report described a 24-year-old who began to suffer from alleged Propecia sexual side effects a week after he began taking the drug.

In this Propecia side effects case report, the patient started to suffer soreness in his testicles, impotence, and a declining sex drive. The case report stated that continued even when the patient stopped taking Propecia 11 years ago.

Propecia lawsuits have been filed by patients who allege that they have suffered side effects. Propecia lawsuits allege the makers of Propecia were aware, or reasonably should have been aware, of the risk of Propecia sexual side effects.

Propecia lawsuits may also allege that the makers of Propecia failed to adequately test the drug for safety and efficacy, and downplayed risks to both the public and the FDA, placing patients at the risk of developing sexual dysfunction from Propecia. Propecia lawsuits typically seek to recoup medical costs, compensation for pain and suffering, and legal fees/court costs.