Hair Loss Drug Finasteride Linked to Suicidal Thoughts, European Authorities Warn
Paris, France – European health authorities have issued a strengthened warning regarding the potential for serious mental health side effects associated with finasteride, a widely used medication for male pattern baldness. the alert, announced Thursday by the French National Medicines Safety agency (ANSM), follows a re-evaluation of the drug’s risks and benefits by the European Medicines Agency (EMA).
The EMA confirmed that suicidal thoughts have been identified as a side effect of finasteride, alongside other mood disorders including depression and depressive mood.While a link to suicidal thoughts could not be established with dutasteride – a similar drug – authorities are taking steps to mitigate risk.
Existing warnings about mood changes within finasteride’s information leaflet will remain, and the EMA is requiring updates to the packaging of 1mg finasteride tablets. These updates will explicitly advise patients to consult a doctor if they experience sexual dysfunction, such as reduced libido or erectile dysfunction, as these side effects can contribute to mood disturbances.An information card detailing these risks and recommended actions will also be included in tablet boxes.
The ANSM, though, believes the European-level measures are insufficient. Based on its own pharmacovigilance assessments, the agency states that “patients must be protected” and recommends regular re-evaluation of the continued need for finasteride treatment during medical consultations, especially for those undergoing prolonged therapy.
Patients experiencing any mood changes while taking finasteride 1mg are advised to immediately consult a doctor and discontinue treatment.
