Hidden Risks of Finasteride for Hair Loss: What Minneapolis Men Should Know About This Prescription Drug
For men dealing with hair loss, treatments like finasteride (often known by brand names like Propecia®) can seem like a godsend. However, research has raised serious concerns about potential side effects—specifically the mental health risks that many men are never fully warned about.
At 1000ROOTS, a trichology practice serving Minneapolis and St. Paul, we believe in giving our clients the full picture when it comes to their hair loss treatment options—including a transparent discussion of all known risks.
What Is Finasteride?
Oral finasteride is one of two FDA-approved drugs for treating male genetic hair loss (also known as androgenetic alopecia and male pattern hair loss). While a topical form of finasteride is also available, this discussion will focus on oral finasteride, as it has been more widely studied and prescribed.
How Finasteride Works
Oral finasteride works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase type 2, which is responsible for converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Elevated levels of DHT are a key factor in male pattern hair loss, as DHT contributes to the miniaturization of hair follicles over time. By reducing DHT levels, finasteride helps slow hair thinning and can promote the maintenance or regrowth of hair in men experiencing hair loss.
Benefits of Finasteride for Hair Loss
Clinically studied results: Finasteride has been shown to significantly slow hair loss progression in many men.
Easy to use: It's taken once daily as a pill.
Long-term maintenance: Ongoing use may help men preserve existing hair for years.
However, it’s essential to consider the potential side effects alongside the benefits.
Side Effects and Risks of Finasteride
Reported side effects of oral finasteride include sexual dysfunction, such as decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and ejaculatory disorders, as well as gynecomastia (an increase in breast gland tissue).
Concerns about mental health impacts have also emerged. A 2022 review published in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment (“Finasteride for hair loss: a review”) noted that an increase in patient complaints and an analysis of the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database led to an important update to the drug’s labeling. In 2011, the FDA added depression as a potential side effect, acknowledging a risk of suicidality in some users. These mental health concerns have often been associated with persistent sexual side effects, a cluster of symptoms sometimes referred to as post-finasteride syndrome.
Importantly, cases have been reported even among men with no prior history of mental health conditions. In some instances, side effects have persisted after discontinuing finasteride, raising additional concerns about its long-term impact on a subset of users.
Is Finasteride Right for You?
At 1000ROOTS in Minneapolis, we work with each client individually to assess whether finasteride — or any other treatment — aligns with your health, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
Together, we'll discuss:
Your health history (including mental health)
Your hair restoration goals
Evidence-based options, including their potential side effects and risks
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating hair loss. It's about finding a safe, sustainable plan that supports not only your hair, but also your overall well-being.
Final Thoughts
At 1000ROOTS, we prioritize full transparency and your overall health. If you're in Minneapolis or the surrounding area and looking for trusted, research-backed guidance for your hair and scalp health, we invite you to book a consultation.
