Can Finasteride Cause Peyronie’s Disease? is one of the most asked queries by our readers. This article discusses in detail about potential risks of taking finasteride, including the link to Peyronie’s disease.
Table of contents
Introduction: Understanding Finasteride & Peyronie’s Disease
What is Finasteride?
Finasteride is a synthetic 4-azasteroid compound selective inhibitor of Type II 5α-reductase, an intracellular enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is the androgen primarily responsible for the prostate gland’s initial development and subsequent enlargement. In adult men, approximately 60% of circulating testosterone is converted to DHT by 5α-reductase.
The use of finasteride 5 mg (Proscar) in treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) was first reported in 1992. That year, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved using finasteride 5 mg for treating symptomatic BPH in men with an enlarged prostate.
The use of finasteride 5 mg in treating male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) was first reported in 1997. That year, the FDA approved the use of finasteride 1 mg (Propecia) for treating male pattern hair loss in men.
What is Peyronie’s Disease?
Peyronie’s Disease is a disorder of the penis characterized by forming of fibrous scar tissue within the penis. This scar tissue can cause the penis to become curved or bent during erection.
It usually develops slowly over time and can be a source of discomfort and pain for those affected. Peyronie’s Disease can also cause erectile dysfunction, leading to difficulty achieving sexual satisfaction.
The exact cause of Peyronie’s Disease is unknown, but it is believed to be related to genetics and injury to the penis. Treatment options include supplementation, injections, physical therapy, and surgery.
Can Finasteride cause Peyronie’s disease?
The relationship between Finasteride and Peyronie’s disease needs to be clearly understood. Although some studies have suggested a possible link between the two, more research is needed to determine whether they are related.
In one study, researchers looked at men taking Finasteride and found a higher rate of Peyronie’s disease than those not. However, it is essential to note that this study did not prove a causal relationship between the two. Additionally, other studies have found no link between Finasteride and Peyronie’s disease.1Are finasteride-related penile curvature/Peyronie’s disease Adverse Event Reports worthy of further clinical investigation?
The evidence surrounding the potential link between Finasteride and Peyronie’s disease is inconclusive. More research is needed to determine if there is a causal relationship between the two. Until then, Finasteride should be used cautiously, and patients should be aware of the potential risks associated with the drug.
How Common is Peyronie’s disease from taking Finasteride?
It’s estimated that around 1% of men who take finasteride will experience some form of Peyronie’s disease. This number of side effects increases to around 3%, including all forms of decreased libido and sexual dysfunction. While these numbers may seem small, it’s important to remember that these are just estimates. The number of men affected by sexual side effects may be much higher.
The most common sexual side effects reported by men taking finasteride are decreased libido and erectile dysfunction. These side effects usually go away after a man stops taking the medication. However, in some cases, these side effects can persist even after stopping finasteride.
Peyronie’s disease is a condition that causes the penis to bend or curve when erect. It’s not clear if finasteride can cause Peyronie’s disease. Some studies have found a possible link between the two, but more research is needed.
If you’re taking finasteride and experiencing any sexual side effects, talk to your doctor. They may be able to prescribe a different medication that doesn’t cause these side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Finasteride is a prescription medication used to treat male pattern baldness. It blocks an enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone, which can cause hair loss.
Finasteride is a drug used to treat hair loss and is known to have some side effects on male reproductive health. There is a potential link between taking Finasteride and developing Peyronie’s Disease, although it is not definitive. If you are considering Finasteride, it is essential to speak with your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of the drug.
Some potential side effects are associated with taking Finasteride, such as decreased libido, Peyronie’s disease, erectile dysfunction, and decreased ejaculate volume. It is essential to discuss any potential side effects with your doctor before starting treatment.
Peyronie’s disease is an uncommon side effect of Finasteride, affecting around 1% of men taking Finasteride medication. The condition is characterized by a hardening of the tissue in the penis, which can cause pain and difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.
To reduce Finasteride’s side effects, follow your doctor’s instructions carefully when taking the medication. Taking small doses, drinking lots of water, and taking adequate sleep can help you reduce side effects to become worse. Also, talk to your doctor about any other medications or supplements you are taking and ensure they are safe to use with Finasteride.
