Randomized Questionnaire Based Case–Control Research Study on Evaluation of Sexual Function in Indian Patients Taking Oral Finasteride for Androgenetic Alopecia

Abstract

Introduction: Finasteride is one of the most common drugs used in androgenetic alopecia. The literature discusses the sexual side effects of the drug; however, in practice there is little evidence to support this. The aim of the present study was to investigate the sexual dysfunction in patients taking finasteride 1 mg for androgenetic alopecia. Methods: A questionnaire, based on the International Index of Erectile Function, was given to approximately 586 patients with androgenetic alopecia who were being treated with finasteride 1 mg for an average of 16 weeks. These patients were compared to an age-related control group who were attending the Dermatology Out Patients Department for various other skin ailments not related to hair disorders. Results: Statistical analysis of the results showed no significant difference in the scores between patients taking finasteride and the control group. Conclusion: Analysis showed no significant difference in sex-related problems with that of patients taking finasteride and age matched controls, suggesting that sex-related issues are not a side effect of finasteride.