TLDR Negative expectations can cause adverse effects in dermatology treatments, like with finasteride for baldness, and careful communication can help reduce these nocebo responses.
The document from 2015 examines the nocebo effect in dermatology, particularly focusing on how patients' negative expectations can lead to adverse effects, especially with treatments like finasteride, which is used for male pattern baldness. The review indicates that the nocebo effect is often encountered in dermatology due to the visible and unpredictable nature of skin conditions. It is noted that the incidence of sexual dysfunction reported by patients using finasteride is similar to that of placebo, suggesting a strong nocebo component. The document also discusses the ethical challenges of informing patients about potential side effects and presents strategies to minimize the nocebo effect, such as careful communication and patient counseling. The authors stress the importance of distinguishing between true drug side effects and nocebo responses to improve treatment outcomes and patient-physician relationships. Future research is encouraged to better understand and manage the nocebo effect in dermatology.
81 citations,
June 2014 in “American Journal of Men's Health” Finasteride can cause lasting sexual, emotional, and cognitive issues, with varying severity.
57 citations,
July 2016 in “The Journal of Sexual Medicine” 5α-reductase inhibitors increase the risk of sexual dysfunction, especially in men with enlarged prostate.
June 2024 in “Georgetown medical review” Finasteride treats hair loss but may cause low libido, erectile issues, and depression.
14 citations,
January 2019 in “Skin appendage disorders” PFS might be a delusional disorder with potential to become mass psychogenic illness.
33 citations,
January 2016 in “Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology” Taking 1 mg of finasteride daily can increase hair count and improve hair appearance, but it may have side effects on sexual function and a potential risk of prostate cancer. It may not be effective for postmenopausal women unless taken in higher doses.
11 citations,
January 2018 in “International Journal of Trichology” The true incidence of post-Finasteride syndrome is unclear, and more research is needed.
10 citations,
October 2018 in “Sexual medicine reviews” Men using hair loss drugs like finasteride may experience sexual side effects like erectile dysfunction, but it's unclear who will be affected and when. Treating depression and sexual symptoms is suggested, as these men often have higher rates of both. More research is needed to understand why these side effects occur.
