Finasteride: Risk of Suicidality and Depression

June 2025 in “ Reactions Weekly ”

finasteride hair loss benign prostatic hyperplasia psychological side effects depression suicidal thoughts Propecia

TLDR Finasteride may increase the risk of depression and suicidal thoughts.

The article discusses the potential risks of suicidality and depression associated with the use of Finasteride, a medication commonly used for treating hair loss and benign prostatic hyperplasia. It highlights that while Finasteride is effective in its primary uses, there have been reports and studies indicating a possible link between the drug and increased risks of psychological side effects, including depression and suicidal thoughts. The article emphasizes the importance of monitoring patients for these adverse effects and suggests that healthcare providers should weigh the benefits against the potential mental health risks when prescribing Finasteride.

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Research cited in this study

1 / 1 results

Signal Detection Between 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors and the Risk of Suicidality and Depression: An International Pharmacovigilance Analysis

research Signal Detection Between 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors and the Risk of Suicidality and Depression: An International Pharmacovigilance Analysis

1 citations , June 2025 in “European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology”

Finasteride may increase the risk of suicidality and depression, especially in younger people.

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The release of a study on 5a-reductase inhibitors (finasteride and dutasteride) which showed an increased risk of depression, dementia, decreased libido, and reduced semen load as potential side effects; discussion around other forms of hair loss treatments such as topical minoxidil, RU58841, or opting to accept baldness; and advice to consider professional help for deeper issues related to hair loss.

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in Finasteride/Dutasteride 948 upvotes 10 months ago

A long-term finasteride user experienced side effects like sexual dysfunction, dry eyes, muscle weakness, and brain fog, which improved when they stopped the medication. They decided to stop finasteride again, questioning if maintaining hair was worth the negative impact on their well-being.

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in Finasteride/Dutasteride 37 upvotes 1 year ago

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in Finasteride/Dutasteride 194 upvotes 2 years ago

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research Use of Finasteride in the Treatment of Men With Androgenetic Alopecia

38 citations , June 2003 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology Symposium Proceedings”

Finasteride effectively improves hair growth and slows hair loss in men with male pattern baldness.