Took Dutasteride for 2 Years, But I Might Have Side Effects Now — Should I Switch to Propecia?

Dear Dr Rassman,

I’m 23 yrs male. My hair was thinning and growing very slowly. I’ve been on Generic Dutasteride (Dutas) for exactly 2 years now. I’ve had very good results and my grows really fast. I’m not sure if I’m experiencing side effect or am I just stressed because of money problems. My sex drive and erection is not strong as I would like it to be, but this could also be natural right? So I’m not sure if they are side effects.

I want to switch to Generic Propecia now and just hope my sex drive and erection would be strong as I would like it to be. But I’m worried that if I switch to Propecia, I might start losing hair. I just wanted to know your opinion on what you would do if you was in my place? Thanks

I really don’t know why you are having erection problems. While dutasteride can possibly cause erection problems, if you have been taking it for 2 years without problems I doubt the medication is the cause. I would consult with your doctor for a complete examination. Also keep in mind, dutasteride will last several months in your body (possibly up to a year) if you stop taking it.

If you are asking for my advice on what will happen if you switch from dutasteride to Propecia, I don’t have a clear answer for you. Dutasteride blocks more DHT than finasteride, so you might see some difference there. All of this points to the fact you need to be followed by a physician who can follow your specific issues and give you objective and accurate recommendations. I’m not your doctor and I’m just making general observations.