What Is Propecia?
Propecia is a widely-used drug designed to stop hair loss caused by male pattern baldness. Propecia (Finasteride) treats hair loss by inhibiting an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase. This inhibition leads to an increased conversion of testosterone into estrogen. This can lead to sexually adverse events, including erectile dysfunction, decreased libido, decreased semen amount, and more.
Propecia & Persistent Gynecomastia
Increased estrogen levels are known to cause gynecomastia, or the growth of male breast tissue. Since Propecia has been used by millions of men, there have been many reports that it has caused gynecomastia — usually unilateral gynecomastia. Typically, this side effect diminished when the men discontinued use of propecia.
However, there is conclusive evidence that some patients have suffered persistent breast enlargement. At least one had reported enlarged breast tissue 10 months after stopping Propecia. Another patient had enlarged breast tissue even 6 years after stopping Propecia.
Gynecomastia & Other Side Effects
Physically, gynecomastia looks different than the fat deposits commonly found in obese men. Instead, gynecomastia appears like a mass extending in a cone-shape from the nipples. Gynecomastia is caused by enlarged glandular tissue and can be diagnosed during a physical examination.
Although gynecomastia itself is not life-threatening, it can cause substantial embarrassment, social anxiety, and extreme psychological harm. Often, the breast tissue is very sensitive. Breast tenderness and breast pain can cause severe discomfort.
In addition to gynecomastia, side effects of Propecia may include, but are not limited to:
- Sexual side effects
- Male breast cancer
- High-grade prostate cancer
- Loss of Libido
- Erectile dysfunction
- Emotional trauma
- Body disfigurement
- Decreased muscle mass
- Endocrine system failure
- Penile fibrosis
- Genital shrinkage
- Post-Finasteride Syndrome
Get Your Free Case Consultation
If you or somebody you know has been injured by Propecia, contact our St. Louis personal injury lawyers at (314) 444-4444 immediately for a free case consultation. The attorneys at Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers can help you to determine your rights to compensation.
