The side effects of Propecia, a popular hair loss medication, may increase the risk that men experience erectile dysfunction, decreased libido and other sexual problems, which have been permanent in some cases.

PROPECIA LAWSUIT STATUS: Potential claims are being reviewed for men who have been diagnosed with erectile dysfunction or other permanent sexual problems. Compensation may be available through a Propecia lawsuit as a result of the drug maker’s failure to warn about the sexual dysfunction risks associated with the use of the medication.

MANUFACTURER: Merck

OVERVIEW: Propecia (finasteride) was originally developed by Merck as an enlarged prostate treatment and marketed as Proscar in 1992. It was later approved to treat male pattern baldness, when it was given the name Propecia.

In 2008, Propecia brought in $429 million in revenue for Merck.

PROPECIA SEXUAL SIDE EFFECTS: In 2008, the Swedish Medical Products Agency began investigating reports that Propecia erectile dysfunction problems were becoming permanent in some men and in 2009 the agency determined that for some men the side effects could indeed be persistent even after they stopped taking Propecia.

In early 2011, U.S. researchers also found evidence that the Propecia side effects could be permanent. The drug is a member of a class of medications known as 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors, which have been linked to loss of libido, depression, erectile dysfunction, reduced semen production and growth of male breast tissue.

Allegations raised in Propecia lawsuits filed against Merck argue that the drug maker failed to provide adequate warnings to men in the United States, despite more specific and detailed warnings provided in other countries.

In 2008, warnings in Europe stated that erectile dysfunction problems from Propecia may persist even after the patient discontinues use of the medication. In 2009, the warning label in Europe was changed again to warn about the risk of permanent erectile dysfunction.

However, in the United States, the label for Propecia continued to contradict the label in Europe, stating that “these side effects went away in men who stopped taking PROPECIA because of them.”

Propecia Lawyers

Individuals who have experienced continuing Propecia sexual problems may be entitled to compensation through a lawsuit. Propecia lawyers are reviewing potential claims for individuals throughout the United States and offer free consultations to determine if individuals may qualify for a claim.

Contact a Lawyer.

Submit information about your potential case to be reviewed by an attorney.

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