Trazodone associated with Clomiphene a proposal treatment for post finasteride syndrome

Abstract

Erectile dysfunction caused by medications are probably caused by the disconnection of synaptic circuits responsible for linking libido to erection. For instance, it is well known that sexual dysfunction may occur in patients treated with finasteride, an inhibitor of the enzyme 5alpha-reductase, prescribed for androgenetic alopecia and benign prostatic hyperplasia. Interestingly, sexual dysfunction persists after drug discontinuation. Clomiphene citrate is a selective estrogen receptor modulator that has been used for the treatment of hypogonadism in men. It acts centrally to increase secretion of luteinizing hormone. Trazodone is a multifunctional drug with hypnotic actions at low doses due to blockade of 5-HT2A receptors, as well as H1 histamine receptors and α1 adrenergic receptors, therefore this drug can cause severe priapism and in many cases causing penile necrosis or permanent loss of erectile function. Therefore, we propose that trazodone and clomiphene can restore libido synaptic circuits, thus these associated drugs can be a treatment for post-finasteride syndrome.