Can Finasteride (Propecia) damage my brain?

Question

I know that there is a %2-3 chance that I get some negative sexual side effects but from various forums like forum.propeciahelp.com on internet I have read that Propecia can permanently damage your brain. Now I don't want to start the drug even though I purchased it since I am planning on being a physicist and my mental health is very important for me. Is there any truth in it? over-time.99822/

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

No, Finasteride will not permanently impact your brain. I suggest seeing a hair loss expert now to evaluate and go over your condition and provide you information about your best treatment options. There are great non-invasive options like prp/progesterone and/or hair transplantation. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Jeff Rapaport, MD · Answer

"Brain fog" has been reported in rare instances among finasteride users as dr. Rassman suggests.However, the post finasteride syndrome Foundation describes these cognitive side effects. They are memory and recall impairment,  Slowed thought and Decreased comprehension. In most individuals, if one discontinues Propecia the side effects will clear. The incidence of post finasteride syndrome is less than 2% of those who have any symptoms from finasteride and discontinue the drug. The incidence of post finasteride syndrome is greater in those who have a history of anxiety or depression. In my opinion, if you have had a history of anxiety or depression you should not take finasteride. Furthermore this drug should  be discussed with your hair loss expert prior to starting.

Benjamin C. Paul, MD · Answer

Thanks for posting your question. About one patient a year in my practice will experience "brain fog". They say they feel like there mentation is "off" a few weeks into the treatment of propecia.  Every patient has their mentation return to normal by stopping the propecia if this very rare side effect is experienced. As you may or may not be aware, the brain has the ability to re-wire itself and adjust to environmental changes.. this is called "neuronal plasticity". As such, a "permanent" change from propecia seems nearly inconceivable since the brian is always adjusting via neuronal plasticity. Hope this helps.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

A rare side effect of finasteride is 'brain fog' meaning that some people claim that they don't think clearly. To my knowledge, this has never been reported as a permanent side effect

Can Finasteride (Propecia) damage my brain?

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Answer: Finasteride and brain function

Answer: Finasteride and brain function

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Can Finasteride (Propecia) damage my brain?

Answers (4)

Answer: Finasteride and brain function

Answer: Finasteride and brain function

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