Finasteride for androgenetic alopecia is not associated with sexual dysfunction: a survey-based, single-centre,...

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Andrology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Concerns exist regarding sexual dysfunction side-effects of finasteride in men with androgenetic alopecia (AGA).
• The actual prevalence of these side-effects may be lower than widely reported.
• Investigating sexual dysfunction in finasteride users compared to population-based controls is necessary.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the presence and prevalence of sexual dysfunction in men using finasteride compared to those not using it.
• To determine if finasteride use is associated with increased rates of sexual dysfunction.

Main Methods:

• A survey was administered to adult men visiting a dermatologist.
• The survey included a modified Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX) to assess sexual dysfunction.
• Data were collected from 663 finasteride users and 99 non-finasteride users.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in sexual dysfunction were reported between finasteride users and non-user controls based on ASEX scores.
• Regression analysis identified self-reported libido loss and reduced sexual performance as predictors of higher ASEX scores, not finasteride use.
• The study included 762 men aged 18-82.

Conclusions:

• Finasteride use is not associated with sexual dysfunction in men with androgenetic alopecia.
• These findings align with previous large, survey-based controlled studies.
• The study suggests that factors other than finasteride use are more predictive of sexual dysfunction in this population.