Judge approves class-action lawsuit over erectile dysfunction link to prostate, baldness drugs

A B.C. judge has certified a class- action lawsuit against a manufacturer of drugs for male prostate and baldness problems that allegedly result in ongoing sexual dysfunction.

In May 2008, Michael Miller, the representative plaintiff in the case, obtained from his doctor a prescription for the drug Proscar, manufactured by Merck Frosst Canada for the treatment of hair loss.

Proscar, a drug normally used for treatment of prostate problems, was given to Miller because it has the same active drug as Propecia, the companys drug for male baldness, and is cheaper.

Miller claims that after about a month he became completely disinterested in sexual activity.

The symptoms of sexual dysfunction increased over the following months and Miller became anxious and upset.

He blames his problems on the side effects of the drug.

Miller claimed that the company acted with reckless disregard and put profits before public safety by ignoring labelling changes outside of Canada and by marketing the drugs in Canada without adequate warnings.

An affidavit filed by Millers lawyer said the law firm had been contacted by 281 Canadian men who wished to participate in the class action suit, 55 from B.C.

The company argued that the allegations of negligence were not sustainable and that only a limited cause of action for a failure to warn of persistent sexual dysfunction had been made out.

It argued against having the case heard as a class-action lawsuit but in a ruling released Tuesday, B.C. Supreme Court Justice Robert Punnett dismissed those arguments.

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Judge approves class-action lawsuit over erectile dysfunction link to prostate, baldness drugs