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How Long Does It Take For DHT Levels To Return To Normal?

Posted on Tue, 1 Apr 2014

Question: Hello, I am a healthy 43 year old man who started taking finasteride about 12 years ago to prevent hair loss. Because of a number of reports I have read about the possibility of permanent hormonal and sexual side effects I have decided to perhaps discontinue the drug. Can you tell me how long it would take for my DHT levels to return to those of a healthy adult man? I have not these levels checked to date. Thank you!

Answered by Dr. Naveen Poola (14 hours later)

Brief Answer: Refer below Detailed Answer: Hello, Thank You for consulting HealthcareMagic! There is no clear cut research evidence of particular time span in which these levels would return to those of a healthy adult man. I suggest to check these levels by not getting scared about this and we can discuss further. But, I can say few important facts about finasteride you may want to know. These are that a decrease in the volume of ejaculate may occur but that this does not appear to interfere with normal sexual function. However, there is possibility of impotence and decreased libido. Hair growth gained during treatment for androgenic baldness will likely be lost within 12 months after discontinuing the drug. Stay healthy and thank you for consulting! You can contact me again anytime, if you need clarifications or further assistance in future. Kindly rate the answer if you are satisfied.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E

Follow up: Dr. Naveen Poola (2 hours later)

Thank you Doctor. I appreciate what you are saying, but it does worry me somewhat. In your own practice, you more than likely prescribe finasteride to patients. Have you ever had a patient cease taking the medicine to have the horrible permanent side effects? I have to say that for the most part my experience with the medicine has been positive. My ejaculations were good, libido was not affected at all. I was very happy. I have noticed the last few years my testicles drawing closer to my body and erections being difficult. My testosterone levels are normal but I want to make sure my body will return to normal. Do you have a professional opinion as to how long it might take?

Answered by Dr. Naveen Poola (6 hours later)

Brief Answer: Need not worry Detailed Answer: Hi, Have you ever had a patient cease taking the medicine to have the horrible permanent side effects? Permanent side effects are very rare. I never came across a patient with horrible permanent side effects. I do no think that you need to worry about that. I can see that everything is good about you. So, please do not be apprehensive and get your DHT levels checked, only as you are concerned about it. Do couple of follow ups with your Urologist for your reassurance. Stay healthy and thank you for consulting! You can contact me again anytime, if you need clarifications or further assistance in future. Kindly rate the answer if you are satisfied. regards,

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T