Finasteride Use: Evaluation of Depression and Suicide Risk

The study analyzed data from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System to evaluate the association between oral finasteride use and psychological adverse events, such as depression and suicide risk, across different time periods. It found no significant adverse events from 2006 to 2011, but a notable increase in reports of depression and suicidal ideation from 2013 to 2023, particularly at the 1 mg dose, following the awareness of post-finasteride syndrome (PFS). The study suggests a potential link between finasteride use and increased psychological risks, emphasizing the need for screening and monitoring patients with mood disorders. However, it also notes the importance of cautious interpretation due to potential reporting biases and limitations of the FAERS database.