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Schedule A ConsultationGynecomastia, or the development of enlarged male breast tissue, can be caused by many factors—but one of the most overlooked triggers is medication. Several commonly prescribed and over-the-counter drugs can disrupt hormone balance, leading to breast enlargement in men. Understanding which are the meds that cause gynecomastia can help you prevent or manage symptoms early.
This article outlines the most common drug-related culprits, how they affect hormone levels, and what you can do if you notice changes in your chest.
Most cases of medication-induced gynecomastia occur because a drug alters the balance between testosterone and estrogen. This hormonal shift can stimulate the growth of glandular breast tissue in men, especially if the medication is taken long-term.
Meds That Cause Gynecomastia: Some medications increase estrogen levels directly, while others suppress testosterone production or block its effects in the body.
Here are the main drug categories known to cause gynecomastia, along with examples from each.
Anti-Androgens
Used to treat prostate issues, hair loss, or hormone-sensitive cancers
Certain heart and blood pressure drugs can affect hormone metabolism
Used for acid reflux or ulcers
These may influence hormone receptors
Used in cancer therapy or gender-affirming care
While not prescription meds, these can also lead to gynecomastia
Watch for these early signs:
Meds That Cause Gynecomastia: Symptoms can appear gradually or after several weeks or months of use. One side of the chest may be more affected than the other, especially in early stages.
Never stop a prescription medication without consulting your doctor. Instead:
In some cases, stopping the medication or switching to another option may reverse the condition, especially if caught early.
If the glandular tissue remains after 6 to 12 months, it is unlikely to go away on its own—even if the medication is stopped. At that point, surgical removal is the only effective treatment.
The procedure includes:
If you’ve developed chest fullness and think a medication may be to blame, we can help. Dr. Joseph Cruise specializes in diagnosing and treating all forms of gynecomastia, including drug-induced cases. We’ll help you confirm the cause and design a plan to restore a flatter, more masculine chest.
Schedule a gynecomastia consultation today to take the first step toward answers and long-term relief.
Dr. Joseph Cruise is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience. Regarded as one of the top gynecomastia surgeons in the world, Dr. Cruise has gynecomastia-specific content that can be found at lagynecomastia.org. Dr. Cruise has dedicated his career to cosmetic surgery but has also had extensive training in General Surgery, Hand Surgery, and Microvascular Surgery. Dr. Joseph Cruise is also a member of the Rhinoplasty Society as well as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
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