Finasteride and Dutasteride update – by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA)

· finasteride is a medicine that helps with the management of male pattern hair loss (androgenic alopecia; 1 milligram (mg) formulation) and benign (non-cancerous) enlargement of the prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia; 5mg formulation)

· finasteride has been associated with depressed mood, depression, suicidal thoughts and sexual dysfunction (including decreased sex drive and erectile dysfunction)

· in some cases sexual dysfunction has persisted in patients even after they have stopped taking finasteride

· before taking finasteride, inform your doctor if you have any personal history of depression or suicidal thoughts

· stop finasteride 1mg (Propecia) immediately if you develop depression or suicidal thoughts and contact your doctor as soon as possible

· if you are prescribed finasteride 5mg (Proscar) and you develop depression or suicidal thoughts, you should inform your doctor for further medical advice as soon as possible

· if you experience any problems with sexual function such as inability to get and maintain an erection or decrease in sex drive, please discuss this with your prescriber or doctor

· you may not notice some changes in your mood and behaviour so it is very important to tell your friends and family that you are taking this medicine and that it can have effects on psychological well-being. Others may notice changes and help you quickly identify any symptoms that you need to talk to your doctor about

· always read the leaflet that is provided alongside your medicine, which contains information about taking finasteride and a full list of known possible side effects.