Finasteride: sexual side effects and mood concerns
Updated information on sexual effects, mood, and suicidal ideation during treatment with finasteride for hair.
The essentials in less than a minute
- Decreased libido, erectile dysfunction and ejaculation disorders are among the possible effects of finasteride.
- In 2025, the EMA confirmed suicidal ideation as an unknown side effect of finasteride tablets.
- Anyone taking finasteride 1 mg and experiencing mood changes should stop taking it and seek medical attention.
- Explaining these risks does not mean that they occur in all patients; allows us to recognize them and act.
What European regulation has confirmed
After reviewing European data, the EMA confirmed suicidal ideation as an adverse effect of finasteride tablets, with an unestimable frequency. Most reported cases were related to the 1 mg dose used for alopecia. The information and product information and packaging include additional risk-minimisation measures.
Sexual function and well-being
The Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) describes decreased libido, erectile dysfunction and ejaculation disorders. The EMA points out that sexual problems can contribute to mood changes in some people and should prompt consultation. It is not helpful to deny the experience or assume that any symptoms are automatically due to the medication.
| Situation | Performance |
|---|---|
| Mood change, depression, or suicidal thoughts | If finasteride 1 mg is used, discontinue and seek medical attention. In the event of immediate risk, emergencies. |
| New or persistent sexual problems | Communicate it to the prescriber and review alternatives and other causes. |
| Anxiety before starting | Discuss background information and agree on follow-up, without minimizing or anticipating what will happen. |
Before starting
It is advisable to review previous mental health, sexual function, medication, fertility and expectations. The decision should not be reduced to signing a consent: the patient needs to know what to monitor, how to contact and when to interrupt.
A baseline photograph and a review date help assess benefit along with tolerance.
After suspending
The Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) includes notifications of the persistence of some sexual effects after discontinuation, without making it possible to predict who will have them or to attribute any symptoms automatically. Individual evaluation is required. Loss of hair benefit occurs gradually after stopping treatment, but safety takes priority.
urgent help
If there are thoughts of harm or immediate risk, seek emergency help and do not wait for a routine appointment.
Medically reviewed by Dr Paola Blanco
Medical information reviewed for clinical coherence, safety and source quality.
Spanish medical registration 292891820
Official and clinical sources
- EMA Safety measures for finasteride and dutasteride
- AEMPS · Finasteride 1 mg: Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC)
Regulatory information may change. Always check the Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) and the leaflet of the dispensed presentation.
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