Watch what's in your hair-loss creams and serums; it could wreck your health. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a stark warning, cautioning consumers about serious side effects linked to an active ingredient in popular hair-loss medications, with risks ranging from brain fog and depression to erectile dysfunction and even suicidal thoughts.
Since 2019, the FDA has received 32 reports of adverse events linked to compounded topical finasteride, a custom-made version of the drug prepared by pharmacies for direct application to the scalp. The side effects were reported when this was used as a single active ingredient or in combination with other ingredients such as minoxidil for treating hair loss.
