Health Risks of Finasteride Use: A Growing Concern in the UK

By Stayinghealthy !



Several UK experts and health groups are raising concerns over the serious risks linked to finasteride, a drug often used for hair loss (Propecia) but originally approved for benign prostatic hyperplasia (Proscar). The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and other bodies are issuing warnings following growing reports of persistent physical and psychological side effects—even long after patients stop treatment.

 Real-Life Impact: Rob Dixon’s Story

Rob Dixon, a 33-year-old UK music producer, began taking finasteride nearly 9 years ago without medical guidance. Within 24 hours, he experienced alarming symptoms—panic attacks, vision issues, digestive distress, chronic joint pain—and these persisted after stopping the drug. Despite partial improvement, Rob continues to suffer ongoing effects. He co-founded charity SIDEfxHUB to support and raise awareness for affected men.

 Regulatory Alerts in the UK

  • MHRA’s Drug Safety Update highlights that finasteride is associated with depression, suicidal thoughts, and sexual dysfunction—and these may continue even after discontinuation. The MHRA evaluated 426 sexual dysfunction and 281 psychiatric reports via its Yellow Card system by April 5, 2024 .
  • From April 2024, all finasteride packs now include a patient alert card warning about these potential side effects, with advice to involve family and monitor mood or sexual health changes closely .
  • GPs are advised to assess patients for prior depression or suicidal ideation and urge immediate medical review if new psychiatric or sexual symptoms emerge .

 EU Recognition & Label Updates

In May 2025, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) confirmed that suicidal thoughts are a recognized side effect of 1 mg finasteride, prompting new label warnings and patient alert cards—but stressed the drug’s benefits still outweigh risks in approved uses .

 Understanding Persistent Side Effects

Reports of Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS) describe enduring sexual, neurological, and mood disturbances after stopping the drug. While rare, these cases can be severe, even life-altering . Expert profiles emphasize a lack of full understanding, ongoing monitoring, and cautious prescribing.

 The Dangers of Online Access

Finasteride is easily purchased online without medical oversight, increasing risks—particularly among young, unaware consumers. Pharmacist Thoron Govind advises involving family or close friends when starting finasteride to help spot psychological changes early.

 Alternatives & Social Support

Hair specialist Steve O’Brien’s clinic avoids finasteride, favoring natural and non-drug hair-loss treatments. Meanwhile, SIDEfxHUB offers peer support, advocacy, and research outreach for PFS sufferers .

 References

  • Drug Safety Update: finasteride’s psychiatric and sexual risks. MHRA, Apr 2024. Source
  • MHRA press release: patient alert card introduced. Apr 29, 2024. Source
  • GPs alerted about finasteride side effects. Pulse Today, Apr 2024. Source
  • Reuters: EMA confirms suicidal thoughts as side effect. May 8, 2025. Source
  • PFS Foundation & SIDEfxHUB: Paul Dixon case. SidefxHUB, Jul 2024. Source
  • About SIDEfxHUB charity. Jul 2024. Source
Location: UK