Adverse Effects and Safety of 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors (Finasteride, Dutasteride): A Systematic Review

    July 2016 in “ PubMed ”
    Jason Hirshburg, Kelsey Pa, Therrien Ca, Alde Carlo P. Gavino, Jason S. Reichenberg
    TLDR 5-alpha reductase inhibitors are generally safe but can cause sexual side effects and require patient education on risks.
    The systematic review examined the adverse effects and safety of 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (finasteride and dutasteride), commonly used for androgenetic hair loss. Large studies indicated no increase in prostate cancer incidence but a potential rise in high-grade cancer detection without affecting survival rates. Depression was not directly linked, though small studies led to its inclusion as a side effect. Sexual side effects, such as erectile dysfunction and decreased libido, were reported in 3.4-15.8% of men. Limited research on women highlighted risks like birth defects, decreased libido, and other minor side effects. Overall, these inhibitors were well-tolerated but required thorough patient education on potential risks.
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