About Three Weeks Ago I Started Finasteride , After Two

Posted on Mon, 2 Dec 2019

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 2 Dec 2019 Answered on

Last reviewed on

Question : about three weeks ago I started finasteride, after two days of taking it for a about 10 days I due to to sexual side effect. Then I took it again due but at half dose at the advice of my doctor. Then my sexual side effects happen again, I've heard read this is normal and can go away, but I've also heard to this can be permanent, should I be concern and quit this medication ?

Answered by Dr. Olgeta Xhufka (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Most common and permanent side effects of finasteride.

Detailed Answer:
Hello dear, welcome Ask a doctor's service.
I read your query and here is my advice.

The most common side effects of finasteride are impotence, low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, ejaculation disfunction. Even if you take half a dosage you will experience these side effects.
These side effects usually are permanent and can continue after you stop taking it.
You have been using it for a short time so I believe if you stop it, you will not experience them anymore.

Hope I have answered the question.
Let me know if I can assist you further.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Olgeta Xhufka (1 hour later)

so the side effects are permanent? will they not go away over time?

Answered by Dr. Olgeta Xhufka (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
The effects are permanent if you are taking it for a long time.

Detailed Answer:
If you use finasteride for long time the effects are permanent. You have been using it for a short time so I believe they will not be permanent on you if you stop it now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng