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Does Finasteride Cause Erectile Dysfunction? The Truth Revealed

Alan Lucks | MD

Medically reviewed by Alan Lucks | MD, Alan Lucks MDPC Private Practice - New York on February 2nd, 2026.

Key Takeaways

  • Finasteride affects less than 1.3% of men with erectile dysfunction

  • Most sexual side effects are temporary and resolve naturally

  • Multiple treatment options exist for managing potential ED

  • Consulting a healthcare professional is crucial for personalized advice

Finasteride is a medication primarily used to treat male pattern baldness and benign prostate hyperplasia. While it has proven effective for many men, concerns about potential sexual side effects like erectile dysfunction persist. Understanding the relationship between finasteride and sexual health requires a nuanced, evidence-based approach.

The medication works by blocking dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone responsible for hair loss and prostate enlargement. However, this hormonal intervention has raised questions about potential impacts on sexual function. Fortunately, scientific research provides clarity on these concerns.

Understanding Finasteride's Mechanism

Finasteride belongs to a class of drugs called 5-α reductase inhibitors. These medications prevent male pattern baldness by reducing DHT production. The drug comes in two primary dosages: 1 mg for hair loss and 5 mg for prostate treatment.

Clinical trials demonstrate that the medication's impact on sexual function is minimal. In FDA studies, only 1.3% of men reported erectile dysfunction compared to 0.7% in the placebo group. This suggests that the risk is extremely low and often temporary.

Potential Sexual Side Effects

While rare, some men might experience sexual side effects when taking finasteride. These can include:

  • Reduced libido

  • Difficulty achieving or maintaining erections

  • Decreased sexual sensation

  • Potential changes in ejaculation

It's important to note that erectile dysfunction can result from multiple factors, and finasteride is just one potential contributor.

Recovery and Management

Most sexual side effects associated with finasteride are reversible. Research indicates that symptoms typically resolve within a few months, either by continuing the medication or after discontinuation. The drug has a short half-life of five to six hours, meaning it metabolizes quickly.

For men experiencing persistent issues, several management strategies exist:

Comparative Risk Assessment

Medication Type

ED Occurrence Rate

Notes

Finasteride 1mg

1.3%

Hair loss treatment

Finasteride 5mg

Slightly higher

Prostate treatment

Placebo

0.7%

Control group

The Bottom Line

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