Propecia and Proscar Side Effects Injury Lawsuits. Parker Waichman LLP is investigating potential lawsuits on behalf of individuals who developed prostate cancer after taking Propecia (finasteride 1mg) or Proscar (finasteride 5mg). These drugs are used to treat male pattern baldness and prostate problems, respectively. Research has found that taking Propecia or Proscar can increase the risk of high-grade prostate cancer, which is an aggressive form of the disease. In light of these findings, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) updated the labels on Propecia and Proscar to warn users about these risks. If you or someone you know developed prostate cancer after taking Propecia or Proscar, our attorneys would like to speak with you. Call Parker Waichman LLP today for a free, no-obligation evaluation of your case.
Propecia and Proscar Overview
Propecia and Proscar both have finasteride as their main active ingredient, but it is used to treat separate conditions at different doses. Propecia contains 1mg of finasteride and is used to treat male pattern baldness whereas Proscar contains 5mg of finasteride and is used to help treat an enlarged prostate. Propecia and Proscar are part of a class medications known as 5-Alpha reductase inhibitors. In addition to prostate cancer, Propecia has been linked to sexual dysfunction, which may persist even after treatment is stopped.
Propecia and Proscar Linked to Prostate Cancer
In June 2011, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) updated the label on Propecia, Proscar and other 5-Alpha reductase inhibitors, warning that these drugs could increase the risk of high-grade prostate cancer. The agency said that large studies showed that men taking finasteride were more likely to develop aggressive prostate tumors even though their risk of less serious prostate cancer was reduced.
What Do I Need to Know about Prostate Cancer?
According to the Mayo Clinic, prostate cancer is cancer that occurs in the prostate, which is a small organ responsible for producing fluids vital to seminal health and transport. Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in American men, second only to skin cancer. The American Cancer Society predicts that in 2013, 238,590 new cases will be diagnosed and 29,720 men will die of prostate cancer; approximately 1 in every 6 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime. Usually, prostate cancer progresses slowly and remains localized to the prostate gland, but in some cases it can become aggressive and spread quickly to other parts of the body. Incontinence and erectile dysfunction are potential complications of prostate cancer.
Prostate Cancer Symptoms
In the early stages of the disease, prostate cancer may not lead to any noticeable symptoms. Mayo Clinic states that as it progresses to more advanced stages, it can lead to symptoms such as:
- Trouble urinating
- Decreased force in the stream of urine
- Blood in the urine
- Blood in the semen
- Swelling in the legs
- Discomfort in the pelvic area
- Bone pain
Men who suffer these symptoms are advised to speak with their doctors. Prostate cancer can be diagnosed through ultrasound or a tissue sample.
Need Legal Help Regarding Propecia and Proscar?
The personal injury attorneys at Parker Waichman LLP offer free, no-obligation case evaluations. For more information, fill out our online contact form or call 1-800-YOURLAWYER (1-800-968-7529).
