In June 2011, the FDA informed healthcare professionals that the Warnings and Precautions for the labels of the 5-alpha reductase inhibitor (5-ARI) class of drugs had been revised to include new safety information about the increased risk of being diagnosed with a more serious form of prostate cancer, known as high-grade prostate cancer. The FDA reports its findings, based on the results of two large, randomized, controlled trials. One study in particular showed that while finasteride and dutasteride decreased low risk forms of prostate cancer, both trials showed an increase in risk of developing high-grade prostate cancer.
The drugs included in the 5-ARI class are finasteride and dutasteride, marketed under the brand names Proscar®, Propecia®, Avodart®, and Jalyn®. Finasteride is available in two strengths, 1mg and 5mg. Propecia®is primarily presacribed to men to treat male pattern baldness. A number of males have suffered erectile dysfunction, impotence, low libido and gynecomestica after using Propecia. Proscar®, Avodart®,and Jalyn® are most often prescribed to treat the symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate gland, while both Proscar® and Avodart® have also been prescribed to treat reduce the risk of urinary retention or surgery related to an enlarged prostate.
The experienced Mass Torts staff at Loncar & Associates is currently reviewing potential finasteride and dutasteride lawsuits. If you have a question or if you developed prostate cancer or erectile dysfunction after using finasteride or dutasteride, contact my office as soon as possible. Our Mass Torts staff can be reached by contacting us through the links to the right side of the page, or by calling 1-800-285-4878.
