Concerns Regarding Finasteride Side Effects
I'm a 25-year-old male with no significant past medical issues or current medication use. After taking finasteride 1mg daily for 42 days to address hair loss, I began experiencing several unexpected side effects. Initially, I developed acne, which was surprising since I have never had acne before. Following that, I noticed a decrease in semen consistency, leading to concern. By the 30th day, I began to experience reduced libido, and by day 42, I was alarmed to observe a noticeable shrinkage of my penis. Upon realizing these adverse effects, I immediately discontinued the medication. However, the first 10 to 12 days without finasteride were marked by insomnia, and the acne scars that have developed remain persistent and dark. What troubles me most is the feeling of my penis being shrunken, both in girth and in its flaccid state, which is a stark contrast to how it used to appear. I would greatly appreciate any thoughts or advice regarding this situation, as it's causing me considerable distress. It has now been 29 days since I ceased taking finasteride.
Answers (1)
8/14/2025, 3:10:50 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel distressed with the side effects you’ve experienced after taking finasteride. It’s crucial to acknowledge your concerns and provide guidance on how to manage your symptoms while addressing your worries about the changes you’ve noted.
Summary of Main Points:
- Finasteride can cause side effects, including hormonal changes, which may explain your symptoms.
- Discontinuing the medication is a significant first step.
- Focus on coping with these side effects while monitoring your recovery.
Explanation: Finasteride works by blocking the conversion of testosterone to a more potent form called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This can lead to various side effects, such as decreased libido, changes in semen consistency, and even psychological effects. It’s good that you stopped the medication upon noticing these changes. The symptoms you describe, especially the feeling of shrinkage, can be very distressing, but many users find that side effects diminish after stopping the medication.
The insomnia and acne scars following discontinuation can be due to hormonal fluctuations and stress from your experiences.
Next Steps:
- Monitor Symptoms: Continue to observe changes in your libido and any physical symptoms. These may gradually return to baseline.
- Manage Acne Scars: Consider using topical treatments like silicone gel sheets, vitamin E oil, or over-the-counter scar reduction creams that contain ingredients like hydrating agents, retinoids, or peptides to help improve the appearance of acne scars.
- Sleep Hygiene: To help with insomnia, establish a relaxing bedtime routine, limit screen time before bed, and create a comfortable sleep environment. Consider natural sleep aids like melatonin or herbal teas (e.g., chamomile), but consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
- Maintain Open Communication: If symptoms persist or worsen, consider discussing these concerns with a healthcare provider who can offer additional insights and possibly suggest alternative treatments for hair loss if that's a priority for you.
- Consider Stress Management: Activities such as mindfulness, meditation, or gentle exercise can help manage anxiety related to your symptoms.
Please know that you are not alone in this experience, and there are strategies available to help you cope with the changes and concerns you’re facing.
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