Gynecomastia is the benign enlargement of male breasts caused by the growth of breast gland components. Estrogen promotes breast growth, while testosterone hinders it. A hormonal imbalance causes gynecomastia. Gynecomastia, unlike breast cancer in men, is not firmly attached to the underlying tissues and is not a hard unilateral mass. Clinical examination is sufficient for diagnosing gynecomastia, but mammography is beneficial.
| Cause | Description |
|---|---|
| Hormonal Imbalance | Hormonal changes during puberty can cause gynecomastia in boys, which usually resolves on its own within six months to two years. It is also common in people of 50 to 70 years of age. |
| Medication | Certain medications such as anti-androgens, androgens, anabolic steroids, medication for AIDS, antibiotics, anti-depressants, and anti-anxiety can cause gynecomastia. |
| Disease Conditions | Gynecomastia can also be the result of various health issues or diseases like hypogonadism, hyperthyroidism, tumors, kidney failure, liver failure and cirrhosis, malnutrition, and aging. |
What prescription drugs can cause gynecomastia?
| Drug | Description |
|---|---|
| Anti-androgens | Used to treat an enlarged prostate, prostate cancer and other conditions. Examples include flutamide, finasteride (Proscar, Propecia) and spironolactone (Aldactone) |
| Antipsychotics | Examples include haloperidol (Haldol), and prostate cancer medications like bicalutamide (Casodex) |
| Aldosterone Antagonists | Eplerenone (Inspra) and Spironolactone (Aldactone) |
| Cimetidine (Tagamet) | An anti-ulcer medication |
| Digoxin (Lanoxin) | A medication used to treat heart failure and atrial fibrillation |
| Finasteride (Propecia; Proscar) | Used to treat male pattern baldness and benign prostatic hyperplasia |
| Ketoconazole (Nizoral) | An antifungal medication |
| Methadone | A medication used to treat severe pain and opioid addiction |
| Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) | A herbal supplement often used for urinary symptoms |
