Some studies have shown that Finasteride can have an impact on male fertility [1-4]. Even at low doses (such as the daily 1mg dose usually prescribed to treat androgenetic alopecia), Finasteride may reduce sperm count in some men [1]. However, the NHS notes that Finasteride-related infertility is uncommon [5].
Available data indicate that finasteride does not reduce fertility in young, healthy men. Some studies showed a decrease in the sperm volume, sperm number, and morphology, but this was always reversible after drug discontinuation.
The mechanism of action of finasteride is based on the interference in androgenic pathways, which may lead to fertility-related disorders in men. Minoxidil, however, can act in multiple ways, and there is no consensus that its use can adversely affect male fertility.
Some men taking finasteride have reported test results showing that they had poor sperm quality or were infertile. This is not a common side effect and your sperm usually returns to normal after you stop taking finasteride.
Patients may exhibit side effects with topical minoxidil use which include irritant and allergic contact dermatitis, pruritus, scalp irritation, and facial hypertrichosis, which are more often seen with use of 5% solutions rather than 2%.
Possible side effects include scalp irritation and unwanted hair growth on the adjacent skin of the face and hands. Finasteride (Propecia). This is a prescription drug for men.
However, there is abundant proof that with regular use, this treatment can stop the progression of androgenetic alopecia and even improve hair density in 80-90% of its users [1]. So yes, for most patients, Finasteride is safe, effective and worth it.
If people have excessive levels of DHT, they may experience pattern hair loss. As such, these people may consider DHT blockers. Generally, DHT blockers are safe, but some medications and products may cause side effects. For example, some evidence suggests that finasteride may cause male factor infertility.
Can you conceive while on Finasteride? Yes. Even if you've been taking Finasteride for several years, it's still possible to conceive without fertility treatments [2]. It depends on the impact Finasteride has on your sperm health.
Finasteride, a medicine used by men to treat hair loss (1 mg-dose, brand name Propecia) and benign (non-cancerous) enlargement of the prostate (5 mg-dose, brand name Proscar), has been reported to cause depressed mood, depression, suicidal thoughts and sexual dysfunction (including decreased sex drive and inability to ...
Infertility is quite common, affecting about 15 percent of couples, according to the National Library of Medicine. Fortunately, infertility can sometimes be reversed and women can go on to have babies. In fact, conventional medical therapies can reverse infertility in 85 to 90 percent of all cases.
There's no evidence that hydrocortisone skin treatments affect fertility in either men or women.
Minoxidil, a vasodilator medication commonly used to treat androgenetic alopecia, has gained attention as a potential solution for women experiencing hair loss. Minoxidil is best avoided during pregnancy, as it may be linked with problems with foetal development.
The mechanism of action of finasteride is based on the interference in androgenic pathways, which may lead to fertility-related disorders in men. Minoxidil, however, can act in multiple ways, and there is no consensus that its use can adversely affect male fertility.
Not only in women, due to hormonal imbalances in men also contributed to infertility and baldness. a Turkish study found that men under 30 who have severe androgenetic alopecia are dealing with low sperm count. Thyroid- it is one of the biggest common reasons behind hair loss and infertility.
Topical and injected corticosteroids have side effects, including scalp irritation that may lead to a rash, thinning skin on the scalp, and a red or puffy face. Corticosteroid medication taken by mouth may make the body's immune system less capable of fighting a bacterial or viral infection.
Most men aged 18 years old or over can take finasteride. It's generally not recommended for women or children.
While finasteride may be associated with reduced levels of semen quality, production and fertility, many studies suggest that these effects are generally mild and reversible over time3.
It's generally recommended that if you're trying to conceive, you should discontinue finasteride treatment at least a month before your female partner tries to become pregnant. During this washout period, it's important to use barrier contraception.
Long-term use of DHT blockers can lead to persistent side effects such as sexual dysfunction, hormonal imbalances, and potential liver issues. Continuous monitoring by a healthcare provider is recommended.
The study authors noted that when asked for reasons for their decision, 55% of physicians said they were concerned about the risk of high-grade tumors and 52% said they did not know the drug could be used for chemoprevention.
Celebrities such as John Travolta and Elon Musk have publicly acknowledged their use of finasteride. These revelations have paved the way for greater acceptance among fans and communities alike, encouraging those affected by hair loss to consider this treatment without feeling embarrassed or ashamed.
Many men tolerate finasteride well, but some have complications including symptoms that persist after stopping the drug. Propecia's label says 3.8% of patients experienced one or more sexual side effects in Merck's clinical trial, compared with 2.1% who took a placebo.