Hair loss drug under review for possible mental health side effects

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Finasteride, a common prescription treatment for male-pattern hair loss, has drawn attention for reports of possible mental health side effects in a small number of users, including low mood, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. These reactions appear to be uncommon, and research is still evolving, but some regulators have updated safety information and encouraged clearer patient counseling. If someone taking finasteride notices mood changes, it’s important to contact a clinician promptly and not stop or change the medication without medical advice.

Source

Laanani, M., Weill, A., Jollant, F. et al. Suicidal risk associated with finasteride versus dutasteride among men treated for benign prostatic hyperplasia: nationwide cohort study. Sci Rep 13, 5308 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-32356-3

Additional Reading

https://www.healthline.com/health-news/finasteride-hair-loss-drug-mental-health-side-effects

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c05p1pnvymvo

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251013040343.htm