Finasteride and dutasteride: important safety advice

Last Updated: Monday, 12 October 2026

Finasteride 1 mg treats male pattern hair loss.

Finasteride 5 mg and dutasteride treat an enlarged prostate, which can cause problems passing urine.

The UK medicines regulator, the MHRA, has updated its safety advice. Finasteride can cause low mood, depression, thoughts of suicide and sexual problems. Sexual problems can sometimes continue after stopping treatment and may affect mood. A precautionary mood warning is also being added for dutasteride.

What should you do?

• Finasteride 1 mg: stop taking it immediately if you develop depression or thoughts of suicide. Contact your doctor as soon as possible.
• Finasteride 5 mg or dutasteride: contact your doctor as soon as possible if you develop depression or thoughts of suicide.
• For either medicine, contact your doctor about reduced sex drive, erection difficulties or ejaculation problems.
• Tell your prescriber about any history of depression or suicidal thoughts. Read your medicine leaflet and keep the finasteride patient card.

Want to discuss your medicine?

Please contact your GP practice to book a medication review with a clinician. For symptoms listed above, seek help promptly rather than waiting for a routine review.

Read the full MHRA alert.