Risk of Depression Associated with Finasteride Treatment

The review indicated that finasteride, a treatment for hair loss and benign prostatic enlargement, was associated with increased risks of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation, even after discontinuation. The pooled rates of depressive symptoms were higher in those treated with finasteride (3.33%) compared to those not treated (2.54%), with an odds ratio of 2.14. Additionally, the risk of suicidal ideation or behavior was significantly greater in finasteride users (21.2% vs 14.0%), and the risk of sustained sexual dysfunction was notably high (60.1%). These findings suggested that finasteride could have persistent adverse psychiatric effects.