What Is Post-Finasteride Syndrome and How Can You Treat It?
What Is Post-Finasteride Syndrome and How Can You Treat It?
An unfortunate reality about pharmaceutical use is their side-effects, and Finasteride is no exception. Many men who have taken the drug now have what’s called Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS), a combination of disorders that can be generally mild to absolutely devastating. We take a look at the cause of this syndrome and the methods being used to treat it.
Causes and Symptoms of Post-Finasteride Syndrome
Finasteride is an enzyme inhibitor that is used to treat hair loss under the brand name Propecia and other generic brands. It is also prescribed as a treatment for enlarged prostate under the brand name Proscar, as well as other generic brands.
This drug, taken orally, not only causes symptoms during use but also continued symptoms within three weeks of stopping the drug. These symptoms can be ongoing and also persistent. Side-effects from taking Finasteride have been reported as being present even years after the drug has been stopped, leading to breakdowns in family and marital relationships.
Men with PFS have reported a wide variety of sexual, physical, mental, and other symptoms. These include:
Sexual Symptoms
- Loss of libido
- Erectile dysfunction
- Orgasm and ejaculatory disorders
Physical Symptoms
- Muscle pain and weakness
- Tinnitus
- Obesity
Mental Symptoms
- Memory loss
- Depression
- Thoughts of suicide
Other Symptoms
- Insomnia
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Emotional flatness
Although there is no post-finasteride syndrome cure, the good news is that things are changing; since the drug’s approval in 1992, too many men have come forward to ignore the existence of PFS, leading to several solutions being created to help affected men to cope.
Treatment
Because of the relationship effects of symptoms associated with PFS, marital counseling can be very effective. The same is true of family therapy, which can help with the rebuilding of family relationships due to the mental and emotional symptoms of PFS.
Men affected by the syndrome struggle with a loss of self-confidence, as well as anger and frustration. Such complex symptoms require a range of treatments that include individual counseling, as well as mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy to help change negative thinking patterns.
You Can Repair Your Life
Having PFS can cause victims to feel as though everything is breaking down; the loss of sexual performance, the ability to process mentally, and the ultimate negative effects on relationships can also cause intense feelings of grief, which can be greatly improved by a combination of therapies.
Dr. Matthew Bruhin believes that those with PFS can not only successfully repair their relationships but also live fuller lives than ever before. The treatment methods he uses are not only borne from his extensive experience as a therapist but also the result of his own PFS diagnosis, research, and ongoing recovery.
If you are experiencing the symptoms of PFS and are ready to reclaim your best life, Matthew Bruhin and Associates offer post finasteride syndrome treatment. Call us today at 619-683-3774 to explore your options.
