Erectile dysfunction corresponds to a man’s ability, or lack there of, to develop or maintain an erection of the penis. A complication such as this may prohibit the act of sexual intercourse or result in severe emotional distress. Unfortunately, studies have revealed that the introduction of specific drugs may increase the rate in which this condition occurs. Men who receive Propecia (generic: finasteride) treatment may increase their risk of developing erectile dysfunction and any corresponding emotional trauma that may ensue.
If you or a loved one has suffered from erectile dysfunction after taking Propecia, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.
Propecia Erectile Dysfunction Lawsuit Overview
Merck & Co. received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to develop and market Propecia as a solution to male pattern baldness. Shortly after receiving approval from the FDA, Merck introduced Propecia to the U.S. market in 1997. Following its release Propecia was indicated to assist in the re-growing of hair on the anterior and mid scalp region of men.
Finasteride, the active ingredient contained within Propecia, belongs to a class of medications known as 5-alpha reductase inhibitors. As a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, finasteride treats male pattern hair loss by preventing the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the scalp, which prevents hair growth. DHT is a substance in the body that can shrink hair follicles until they no longer produces visible hair. Accordingly, Propecia promotes steady hair growth on the scalp.
While Propecia has demonstrated a unique propensity in the development of new hair follicles, treatment with the drug is not without concern. Due to the alteration of hormones such as testosterone, Propecia, more specifically finasteride, may create an imbalance of chemicals in the endocrine system. If a significant imbalance were to occur, men might experience what is known as endocrine system failure. Subsequently, in the event that the endocrine system fails to function properly, hormones are not distributed throughout the body, affecting nearly every aspect of human functionality. Recent studies suggest that the imbalance created by finasteride may result in the development of several sexual side effects, the most common of which is erectile dysfunction. Due to the severity of these side effects, many people have filed a Propecia erectile dysfunction lawsuit against Merck.
Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction is a sexual dysfunction characterized by the inability to develop or maintain an erection of the penis during sexual performance. A penile erection is the hydraulic effect of blood entering and being retained in sponge-like bodies within the penis. The process is often initiated as a result of sexual arousal due to the hormones being distributed by the endocrine system. Erectile dysfunction is indicated when an erection is difficult, or in some situations impossible, to produce.
Those diagnosed with erectile dysfunction may find it exceedingly difficult to maintain an erection during sexual intercourse. Such a complication may have an unfathomable affect on the psyche of a man. The inability to maintain an erection may result in severe emotional trauma.
Emotional Trauma
Emotional trauma has become synonymous with the development erectile dysfunction. Such a complication has the inherent ability to alter chemical reactions in the brain, which may permanently affect the way in which an individual responds to unique situations. Should emotional distress regarding erectile dysfunction progress, depression is a likely outcome.
In men who have developed persistent sexual dysfunction following Propecia treatment, emotional trauma may be endured for months or even years. These events can completely overwhelm a person’s ability to cope with the event, leading to severe long-term consequences.
Eventually, emotional exhaustion may set in, making it difficult to think clearly or concentrate on anything except negative feelings. This can cause a person to become emotionally detached or dissociated, which is a coping mechanism to “numb” all feelings. A person who has suffered emotional trauma at the expense of erectile dysfunction may come off as cold, preoccupied, or emotionally unavailable. Severe emotional trauma can lead to despair, loss of self-esteem, lower confidence, panic attacks, and depression.
Do I Have a Propecia Erectile Dysfunction Lawsuit?
The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in Propecia erectile dysfunction lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one suffered from erectile dysfunction, you should contact our lawyers immediately by clicking the link below or calling toll free 1-(949) 557-5800. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.