Oral Finasteride gave me Gynecomastia - Is topical Finasteride a good alternative?

Question

Hi, 9 months ago, I started to use 5% Minoxidil every morning and evening, and 1.25 mg of oral Finasteride every night. Short hair on my temple came back. But last month, I started to get Gynecomastia (My brother - now a class 3 - had the same problem with Finasteride). My GP told me to stop it. I also started to use Zantac and Propranolol 1-2 months before developing Gynecomastia. I can't afford doing PRP or laser. I was wondering if topical Finasteride from minoxidilmax.com works? Thanks!

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

Finasteride is (primarily) a hormone blocker. The side effects you described are not entirely unexpected. The systemic side effects of finasteride are less so when administered topically. These can also be compounded with 5% Minoxidil. Substituting topical for oral is a reasonable approach.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS) with experience in hair restoration.Donovan Rosas MD
Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
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Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

All these drugs are well known to cause gynecomastia in some users. You may be getting gynecomastia from one of these drugs, or two or all three. Sit down with an expert to sort out what to do. Is it possible to get gynecomastia with topical finasteride? Yes, but unlikely.

Matt Tahsini, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Yes using topical Finasteride is a great idea and should not cause the same issues you’re currently having. Best wishes.Do. T

Neil Verma, HBSc, MD, FCFP - Account Suspended · Answer

Topical finasteride causes similar side effects to oral finasteride. Better to stay off it if you experienced side effects

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

Topical finasteride can be used with less systemic absorption so the answer to your question is yes, this is a reasonable alternative

Oral Finasteride gave me Gynecomastia - Is topical Finasteride a good alternative?

Answers (5)

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Oral Finasteride gave me Gynecomastia - Is topical Finasteride a good alternative?

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