This study examined data from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System and found that finasteride use is linked with both known and previously unlisted adverse events, such as erectile dysfunction and post-5α reductase inhibitor syndrome, with variations observed by age and sex.
February 2025 in “International Journal of Impotence Research” 
March 2024 in “Facial plastic surgery clinics of North America” This chapter reviews treatment options for androgenetic alopecia, noting FDA-approved finasteride and minoxidil for stabilizing or improving scalp coverage, positive off-label results with platelet-rich plasma, and effectiveness of hair transplantation using healthy follicular units.
July 2023 in “Dermatology and Therapy” This review analyzed the use of 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (5ARIs) for treating various dermatological conditions such as androgenetic alopecia, acne, and hirsutism, emphasizing their efficacy and safety profile.
7 citations
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June 2020 in “Translational Andrology and Urology” This study evaluated potential penile vascular changes and persistent adverse effects in men discontinuing 5α-reductase inhibitors for androgenic alopecia, but no new clinical results were reported.
15 citations
,
March 2020 in “Anais Brasileiros De Dermatologia” This review discusses post-finasteride syndrome, characterized by persistent symptoms despite discontinuation, and concludes that its existence cannot be confirmed; individualized assessment is advisable for those with a history of depression, sexual dysfunction, or infertility.
26 citations
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December 2019 in “Neurobiology of Stress” This review discusses adverse effects of 5 alpha-reductase inhibitors, particularly persistent side effects such as post-finasteride syndrome, and highlights the need for further investigation.
29 citations
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April 2019 in “BMJ. British medical journal” This study concluded that men with benign prostatic hyperplasia receiving steroid 5α-reductase inhibitors, such as dutasteride or finasteride, have a higher risk of developing new onset type 2 diabetes compared to those taking tamsulosin.
35 citations
,
June 2018 in “Urology” This study of FAERS data suggests that finasteride, particularly at the 1 mg dosage, is associated with a wide range of adverse effects not previously established in long-term studies, especially among younger men.
66 citations
,
April 2017 in “International Journal of Andrology” This study found that 5α-reductase inhibitors significantly increase the risk of erectile dysfunction and hypoactive sexual desire in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia, compared to placebo.
