Comparative Effects of Finasteride and Minoxidil on Male Reproductive Organs: A Systematic Review of In Vitro and In Vivo Evidence

    October 2023 in “ Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology ”
    Francielle de Fátima Viana Santana, Amanda Alves Lozi, Reggiani Vilela Gonçalves, Janaina Da Silva, Sérgio Luís Pinto da Matta
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    TLDR Finasteride is more harmful to male reproductive health than minoxidil.
    The systematic review included 31 original studies and aimed to compare the impact of finasteride and minoxidil on male reproductive organs, specifically the testis and epididymis, in adult murine models. The study concluded that both finasteride and minoxidil act as hormone disruptors, causing oxidative stress and morphological changes mainly in the testis. However, finasteride was found to be more harmful to male reproductive health as it was more associated with reproductive injuries, including damage to the epididymis, erectile dysfunction, decreased libido, and reduced semen volume. This study contributes to understanding how medications used for alopecia might lead to male reproductive disorders.
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