About this site

Introduction

This site is published by a former user of finasteride. The purpose of the site is to provide evidence and context on the risks of finasteride as a treatment for hair loss in men ages 18–40. Whereas the pharmaceutical industry and physicians often focus on drug benefits while discounting risks, this site puts risks in the foreground. Multiple perspectives and different types of evidence are considered, from published research to firsthand reports. Every article and document should be reviewed carefully and critically.

The site began as a bibliography. It has grown to include numerous bibliographies which aim to include all research on risks of 5-ARIs, not only research supporting a particular point of view.

Reader advisory

Finasteride reduces the availability of an androgen called dihydrotestosterone. Taking the drug can interfere with sexual function, psychological well-being and other aspects of the body and mind. Its adverse effects may be disturbing and considered socially unacceptable to discuss. This site includes research and firsthand reports on topics such as sexual dysfunction, changes in male sexual anatomy and physiology, and psychological adverse experiences such as depression, anxiety, suicidality and suicide.

Scope

This site is concerned with adverse effects of finasteride for hair loss, especially when taken by men ages 18–40. This site is not concerned with the safety profile of finasteride for other indications such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) or prostate cancer prevention, typically taken by men 55 and older.

Disclosures

This site is published independently without financial compensation. The publisher has not participated in litigation concerning drug harms and is not affiliated with any organization or group focusing on risks of 5-ARIs. The publisher has donated funds to support research on adverse effects of finasteride.

Medical Disclaimer

The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content contained on or available through this web site is for general information purposes only and is not a substitute for the professional judgment of a health care professional in diagnosing and treating users. Information on this website is subject to change without notice. You are encouraged to confirm any information obtained from or through this web site with other sources, and review all information regarding any medical condition or treatment with your physician. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen or read on this site. Your reliance upon information and content obtained by you at or through this site is solely at your own risk. We do not assume any liability or responsibility for damage or injury to you, other persons or property arising from any use of any information or idea contained in this website’s content.

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