Safety Update: Psychiatric and Sexual Adverse Effects with Finasteride

June 2024 in “ Drug and therapeutics bulletin ”

finasteride male pattern hair loss benign prostatic hyperplasia Propecia

TLDR Finasteride can cause depression, suicidal thoughts, and lasting psychiatric and sexual issues.

Finasteride, used for benign prostatic hyperplasia and male pattern hair loss, has been associated with risks of depression, suicidal thoughts, and persistent psychiatric and sexual adverse effects. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) emphasizes the importance of healthcare professionals informing patients about these potential risks.

View this study on dtb.bmj.com →

Discuss this study in the Community →

Related Community Posts Join

6 / 1000+ results

community Topical Finasteride Doesn't Directly Reduce 5ar Enzyme on Scalp

in Finasteride/Dutasteride 72 upvotes 1 year ago

Topical Finasteride doesn't directly reduce 5ar enzyme on scalp and has the same mechanism as oral, needing to go through the liver. Users debate the accuracy of this information and discuss various studies and experiences.

community Male pattern baldness, and mental health

in Finasteride/Dutasteride 331 upvotes 10 months ago

A 48-year-old man has been using minoxidil for 15 years and considered finasteride but stopped due to potential side effects. He is concerned about his mental health and the impact of hair loss on self-image, and he encourages support among men experiencing hair loss.

community Hair Loss Drugs Ranked in Order of Efficacy

in Research/Science 67 upvotes 1 year ago

Dutasteride is likely the most effective treatment for male pattern baldness, followed by finasteride and minoxidil in various forms and dosages. Users discuss personal experiences, dosages, and potential side effects, with some considering combining treatments for better results.

community 1 year of regular fin after years of anxiety

in Update 94 upvotes 1 year ago

User GreatCanuck experienced hair regrowth after using finasteride for a year, reducing anxiety about hair loss. Others in the conversation shared similar positive experiences and discussed family members using the treatment.

community A meta analysis of 18 popular hair loss treatments. An 2022 guide on efficacy. From finasteride and minoxidil to caffeine shampoo, saw palmetto and biotin. 96 Scientific References included.

in Research/Science 101 upvotes 2 years ago

Most hair loss treatments are ineffective; only finasteride, dutasteride, and minoxidil show effectiveness.

community COMPLETE OVERVIEW of the Treatment of androgenetic alopecia in men

26 upvotes 10 years ago

Male androgenetic alopecia is commonly treated with topical minoxidil and oral finasteride, both requiring continuous use. Other options include hair restoration surgery, dutasteride, light therapy, and camouflaging agents.

Related Research

1 / 1 results

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.