TLDR Hair loss drugs like finasteride may cause lasting sexual and mood side effects, and more research is needed to understand these risks.
The editorial from 2011 discussed the persistent sexual, cognitive, and mood-related side effects caused by 5 alpha reductase inhibitors like finasteride and dutasteride, which are used for treating hair loss and urinary symptoms. It stressed the importance of better informed consent about these potential side effects, noting that patients often feel misled due to insufficient warnings from healthcare providers. The lack of research into these side effects, particularly studies not funded by pharmaceutical companies or the government, was highlighted, along with a call for more investigation to understand the risks and help those affected. The International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery recognized the need for further research to establish a clear causal link and identify individuals at risk. The editorial concluded with an emphasis on the role of sexual medicine specialists in preventing drug-induced sexual dysfunction and the necessity for more research in the area.
185 citations
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March 2011 in “The Journal of Sexual Medicine” Finasteride for hair loss can cause long-lasting sexual side effects like low libido and erectile dysfunction.
78 citations
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December 2008 in “The Journal of Sexual Medicine” 5-alpha reductase inhibitors can cause sexual side effects like erectile dysfunction, but the exact reasons are unclear.
40 citations
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November 2020 in “JAMA Dermatology” Finasteride may cause suicidal thoughts and mental side effects, especially in young people with hair loss.
November 2020 in “Elsevier eBooks” Antiandrogens and androgen inhibitors like spironolactone, finasteride, and dutasteride can treat hair loss and skin conditions, but they have risks and side effects, including potential harm to pregnant women and risks of cancer and heart issues. Herbal remedies also have antiandrogenic effects but lack safety validation.
45 citations
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August 2019 in “Dermatologic Therapy” Hair loss treatments work better with lifestyle changes.
January 2020 in “Archives of urology” Finasteride, a drug used for certain conditions, can cause serious side effects like sexual dysfunction, suicidal thoughts, and increased diabetes risk, and there's a need for more awareness and research about these effects.
53 citations
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February 2020 in “Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy” Finasteride and minoxidil work best together for hair loss.
23 citations
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October 2018 in “Expert Opinion on Drug Safety” Consider benefits and risks of new alopecia treatments for safety.
