The National Authority of Medicines and Health Products has announced that the Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee of the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has recommended measures to minimize the risk of suicidal thoughts associated with medications containing finasteride and dutasteride, typically used in cases of benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Infarmed confirmed that suicidal thoughts have been identified as an adverse reaction related to medications containing finasteride (in tablet form), although no direct connection was found with dutasteride medications.
It warns that finasteride in tablet form can cause mood changes, depression, or suicidal thoughts, urging users who experience mood alterations to cease the medication immediately and consult their physician for advice.
The warning also highlights that, for some patients taking finasteride (1 mg tablets), issues related to sexual function, such as decreased libido, difficulties achieving an erection, and ejaculation problems, might contribute to mood changes, including suicidal thoughts.
“If you experience sexual function issues, contact your doctor for additional medical advice,” it adds.
Patients using oral finasteride 1 mg for androgenetic alopecia should be advised to discontinue the treatment and seek medical advice if they experience mood disorders, depression, or suicidal ideation.
Regarding medications with dutasteride, if users experience mood changes, depression, or suicidal thoughts, they should also seek medical consultation.
