MHRA Alert – Finasteride: Psychiatric and Persistent Sexual Side Effects

Key Safety Update on Finasteride

The MHRA has issued a reminder about important side effects associated with finasteride, a commonly prescribed medication for male pattern baldness and benign prostatic hyperplasia. A new patient alert card is being introduced to raise awareness among men taking this drug.

What You Need to Know

Finasteride carries a documented risk of:

• Psychiatric side effects – including depression, anxiety, and mood changes
• Sexual dysfunction – including erectile dysfunction and reduced libido
• Persistent sexual effects – sexual dysfunction may continue even after stopping the medication

These risks apply to all finasteride formulations and doses used in clinical practice.

Affected Medications

• Finasteride 1 mg (Propecia and generics)
• Finasteride 5 mg (Proscar and generics)

What Should Responders and Clinicians Do?

• Be aware of these risks when taking patient histories or reviewing medications
• Ensure patients are informed of psychiatric and sexual side effects before starting treatment
• Encourage open discussion about any side effects experienced during or after treatment
• Direct patients to the new alert card for clear, accessible information
• Consider alternative treatments if patients report concerning psychiatric symptoms or sexual dysfunction

Further Information

Full details are available on the MHRA Drug Safety Update page.