How to treat side effects of dutasteride

Question

I have took dutasteride for more than a year , after a year I'm facing erectile dysfunction issues,and low libido, how can I reverse these side effects, I have stopped taking dutasteride it's been 1.6 years now.

Dr. Mayuri Kakoti · Accepted Answer

Dear Om,

Thank you for reaching out. Since you’ve been off dutasteride for 1.6 years but are still experiencing erectile dysfunction and low libido, it’s important to address the underlying causes and work on restoring your hormonal balance.

Steps to Support Recovery:
	1.	Hormonal Evaluation:
To get a clear picture, I recommend getting the following blood tests:
	•	Total & Free Testosterone
	•	DHT (Dihydrotestosterone)
	•	Estradiol (E2)
	•	LH & FSH
	•	Prolactin
	•	Thyroid Panel (TSH, T3, T4)
These tests will help determine if your testosterone levels are suboptimal or if any hormonal imbalance is contributing to your symptoms.
	2.	Lifestyle Modifications:
	•	Exercise: Strength training and high-intensity workouts can naturally boost testosterone.
	•	Diet: Increase intake of healthy fats (avocados, nuts, olive oil) and zinc-rich foods (oysters, red meat).
	•	Sleep & Stress Management: Ensure 7–9 hours of quality sleep and manage stress, as high cortisol can suppress testosterone.
	•	Avoid Smoking & Excess Alcohol: Both can negatively impact hormone levels and erectile function.
	3.	Supplements to Consider (After Consulting a Doctor):
	•	D-Aspartic Acid (DAA): May help stimulate testosterone production.
	•	Ashwagandha: Reduces cortisol and may improve libido.
	•	L-Carnitine & L-Arginine: Improve blood flow and erectile function.
	•	Vitamin D & Zinc: Crucial for testosterone synthesis.
	•	Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Support overall hormone balance.
	4.	Medical Interventions (If Needed):
	•	If symptoms persist, PDE5 inhibitors (like Sildenafil or Tadalafil) can help with erectile function.
	•	If testosterone levels are low, therapies like Clomiphene Citrate or hCG might help restore natural hormone production.
	5.	Consult a Specialist:
Given the prolonged symptoms, it may be beneficial to see a urologist or endocrinologist to assess whether post-finasteride syndrome or another underlying issue is involved.

Since you also have atopic dermatitis, reducing overall inflammation and supporting immune health could further aid recovery. Let me know if you need help interpreting test results or deciding the next steps.

Dr. Alan Reji · Answer

Dutasteride, a medication often used for hair loss or prostate issues, can sometimes lead to long-term side effects like erectile dysfunction and low libido—even after stopping the drug. This condition is known as Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS), and though it’s more commonly associated with finasteride, dutasteride can have similar effects because it also blocks DHT (dihydrotestosterone). Even 1.6 years after stopping, some individuals experience lingering hormonal or neurological imbalances that affect sexual function.

Recovery is possible, but it takes a multi-dimensional approach. Focus on naturally boosting testosterone and improving blood flow with lifestyle changes—regular resistance training, a high-protein diet rich in zinc, omega-3, and vitamin D, plus stress reduction through mindfulness or therapy. Some people benefit from supplements like ashwagandha, tongkat ali, or L-citrulline. Since you also have atopic dermatitis, ensure you're not on other meds that might worsen libido. You may want to consult a hormone specialist or functional medicine doctor, even online, to check levels like free testosterone, DHT, and prolactin for a more tailored plan. You're not alone—many have reversed this with the right steps and support.

How to treat side effects of dutasteride - #9295

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