What is the most likely adverse effect of finasteride in elderly clients?

Finasteride, a medication commonly used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia and male pattern baldness, has been associated with specific adverse effects, particularly in elderly clients. The correct answer highlights the potential for decreased libido and impotence, which are significant because they directly relate to sexual health—a vital aspect of quality of life for many older adults.

As men age, hormonal balances change, and medications like finasteride can additionally influence these levels. By inhibiting the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone, finasteride can lead to sexual side effects such as reduced sexual desire and erectile dysfunction. In the context of elderly patients, who may already experience natural declines in libido and erectile function as part of the aging process, the impact of finasteride can be exacerbated, making these adverse effects particularly concerning.

Other adverse effects, while potentially problematic, are less commonly associated with finasteride in the elderly population. Increased appetite and weight gain, dry mouth and dizziness, as well as nausea and vomiting, are not widely recognized as significant side effects of finasteride. Understanding the specific risks that finasteride poses for sexual health helps healthcare providers to better counsel elderly patients about potential side effects and manage their treatment expectations effectively.