Question:
I'm considering Propecia, and have read anectodal reports here about
occasional side effects (scrotum ache, breast swelling, erectile
problems, etc.).
I know Merck reports the incidence of such side effects as 2-3%
(comparable to placebo), but wonder how many Propecia users out there
have actually experienced such side effects. Apparently DHT is a
pretty potent hormone, and even the 1 mg. dose of Propecia reduces
systemic levels by 60-70%,.
I 'm just a bit uncomfortable about altering my body chemistry so
drastically. But if these reported side effects are really quite
infrequent, I'll consider trying Propecia just to see if it does regrow
some hair. Any thoughts or impressions regarding the true prevalence of side-effects?
Answer:
One theory I read on the net, was that the adverse effects were quoted
as the number complaining of them from those who had *completed" the
tests. The (substantial) number that bailed out because of those effects
were NOT taken in the stats. Obviously this then slants the stats to lower
the reported effects considerably !
Someone (don't remeber who) within the academic fraternity asked for
the full test results, and of course Merck would not.
Notwithstanding this, Propecia is without doubt the least likely of all oral
hormone treatments, to have detrimental effects. Anyone who does NOT
keenly recommend it to people (males only) with hair worries, is being
unrealistic and mad (for reference see mad Ernie's posts which are all 100 %
wrong and mad). I killfiled him, so at least I won't have to read any deeply
demented replies to this post.
