How Does the Hair-Loss Drug Finasteride Work? Can It Affect My Mental Health?

Finasteride is a drug used to treat male pattern baldness by blocking the enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone, reducing its concentration by 60-70%. While effective for hair regrowth, concerns have arisen about its potential mental health side effects, including depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. Although initial clinical trials did not show these issues, recent reports and statements from the European Medicines Agency and the U.S. FDA have confirmed these risks. If mental health changes occur, consulting a doctor is advised, and stopping the medication is safe if necessary. Alternatives like topical minoxidil are available, though they may also have mild mental health risks.