PFS Patient Story: Alex

Our son, Alexis, is now 34 years old. Finasteride left him disabled and he currently lives with us, his parents.

Ten years ago, he noticed that he was starting to lose his hair and decided to see a dermatologist. After a brief examination, he was diagnosed with androgenetic alopecia and prescribed Finasteride as a treatment.

After three months, he began experiencing the initial side effects: difficulty concentrating, irritability, intense fatigue, and problems with libido. His life started to change drastically. As a brilliant engineering student, he could no longer pursue his studies normally and had to request extensions to complete his degrees. Additionally, as a great athlete, he quickly ceased all his activities. He used to be surrounded by friends, but now started isolating himself socially. His inability to maintain a romantic relationship led to a separation from his girlfriend.

Initially, he believed that his condition would be temporary. He consulted numerous specialists including urologists, andrologists, allergists, endocrinologists, and gastroenterologists. At the time, no one was aware of the side effects of the medication. According to the doctors, most of his symptoms were perceived to be “in his head.” One day, due to his deteriorating condition, a psychiatric hospital detained him overnight out of concern for his well-being.

Losing all his capabilities, he became unable to perform even the simplest tasks of daily life, manage administrative matters, or travel independently on public transportation. Consequently, he fell into depression and gradually lost all ability to work.

With the support of his family, he applied for disability recognition, and his application was accepted.

This is the story of a young man who once had a promising future and a bright path in life, but unfortunately lost all his dreams. His professional prospects vanished, along with any hope for a romantic relationship, the possibility of starting a family, and his independence. He became dependent on his family and relied on a meager monthly disability allowance.

Ironically, the initial diagnosis of androgenetic alopecia, made so quickly, was likely incorrect: Alexis still possesses a full head of hair.