Propecia Breast Cancer, Prostate Cancer
Cancer and Propecia
Certain types of cancer are among the serious side effects reportedly linked to hair loss drug Propecia (generic: finasteride). In June 2011, the FDA released a warning that Propecia, along with other types of 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, may increase the user’s risk of high-grade prostate cancer, the most aggressive form of the disease. Additionally, it has been reported that a small number of finasteride users have been diagnosed with male breast cancer, with most of these reports coming in association with Proscar, which contains five milligrams of the active ingredient finasteride compared to the one milligram found in Propecia. Because the manufacturer may have failed to adequately warn patients about the Propecia cancer risk, users of the drug who were diagnosed with either male breast cancer or high-grade prostate cancer may have legal recourse to seek compensation for damages.
Were you diagnosed with breast or prostate cancer after taking Propecia or Proscar? You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering or other damages. Find out if you are eligible by completing our free, no obligation case review form.
Propecia Prostate Cancer
In the Propecia prostate cancer warning, the FDA announced that 5-alpha reductase inhibitors increase the risk of high-grade prostate cancer. Drugs which are classified as 5-ARIs include Proscar, Propecia and Avodar. Propecia only includes 1mg of active ingredient finasteride, compared to 5mg in Proscar. However, the FDA still saw fit to update the drug's label to reflect the rare, but serious risk, of Propecia prostate cancer. The FDA's Propecia cancer warning was issued based on two studies, which indicated that 5-alpha reductase inhibitors reduced the overall risk of prostate cancer, but increased the user's chances of developing high-grade, aggressive tumors.
Male Breast Cancer and Propecia
In addition to prostate cancer, finasteride, which is sold under brand names Propecia and Proscar, has also been linked to male breast cancer in a small number of users. While the link between Propecia and breast cancer cannot be firmly established, the drug's label cautions users to call their doctor immediately if they notice any of the following signs of Propecia breast cancer:
- Breast lumps
- Nipple discharge
- Pain
- Breast changes
Propecia Lawsuits for Cancer
If you or a loved one was diagnosed with prostate or male breast cancer after using Proscar or Propecia, you may have legal recourse. Potentially, these individuals may be able to pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and other damages through a Propecia lawsuit. To find out if you are eligible, complete our free case review form with details of your Propecia cancer claim.