Dermatologist refused to prescribe finasteride due to “new research” on male breast cancer. anyone heard of this? Research/Science 12/1/2025
A dermatologist refused to prescribe finasteride due to concerns about recent research linking it to male breast cancer, suggesting a topical alternative with minoxidil instead. The user is advised to seek a second opinion, as the evidence for such risks is inconclusive and the dermatologist's reasoning seems questionable.
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6 / 1000+ resultscommunity Male pattern baldness, and mental health
A 48-year-old man has been using minoxidil for 15 years and considered finasteride but stopped due to potential side effects. He is concerned about his mental health and the impact of hair loss on self-image, and he encourages support among men experiencing hair loss.
community People's ignorance on MPB is both frustrating and harmful to balding men and it's important to educate other balding men on Fin/Min/Dut (Discussion)
Many are unaware of effective male pattern baldness treatments like finasteride and minoxidil, often opting for ineffective remedies. Educating others on proven treatments and potential side effects is crucial.
community I am a dermatologist with a clinical interest in alopecia. AMA
In this conversation, 4990 discussed various treatments for hair loss, including oral minoxidil, PRP, transplan, Jak inhibitors, Dutasteride, Finasteride, Olumiant, Ketoconazole, RU58841, microneedling, baricitinib, and CCCA. They recommended scalp biopsies in unclear cases of DUPA, twice weekly to twice daily shampooing for topical minoxidil users, and two sessions spaced one month apart with follow up at month three to determine the effectiveness of PRP treatment.
community Anyone here going the “natural” route?
People discussing their experiences with natural treatments for hair loss, such as essential oils, deep scalp massages, anti-inflammatory measures, and supplements. Most of the replies suggest that these treatments are not effective and recommend medication such as minoxidil or finasteride instead.
community Two Great Articles on NCBI That Summarize What We Actually Know About Finasteride Side Effects
The side effects of taking finasteride as a treatment for hair loss, with particular focus on its sexual and psychiatric side effects; research has indicated that there are high and low outliers in terms of prevalence of sexual side effects, but it is usually between 3-5%, while evidence of lasting sexual side effects comes from lower quality sources.
community Why is everyone not directly advised Dutasteride?
Dutasteride is less commonly prescribed for hair loss because it is not FDA-approved for this purpose, unlike finasteride, which is more accessible and preferred due to fewer side effects. Dutasteride may be more effective in reducing DHT but has a longer half-life and potentially more significant side effects.
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