The illicit trade in medications isn’t limited to erectile dysfunction drugs. Increasingly, authorities are observing a shift towards other substances, including those intended to treat hair loss, and a concerning rise in cases of adverse effects – even in pets. Recent data from Swissmedic, the Swiss therapeutic products authority, reveals a significant decrease in the proportion of intercepted shipments containing drugs for sexual potency, falling from 79% in to 41% in . Simultaneously, medications for hair loss have seen a dramatic increase, jumping from 2% in to 19% in .
This trend reflects a broader societal focus on appearance and anti-aging treatments, a phenomenon observed by dermatologists like Thomas Küng, clinical director of the dermatology clinic at Zurich University Hospital. “The lifestyle, beauty and anti-aging sector is booming, probably also because of social media – and full hair is obviously an important criterion,” he notes.
Hair loss can stem from various causes, including skin conditions and iron deficiencies, particularly in young women. However, the most common cause is androgenetic alopecia, a hereditary condition affecting both men and women. Approximately half of women over 60 experience this type of hair loss.
More Hair, Less Libido
Two active ingredients, finasteride and minoxidil, are commonly used to combat hair loss. Finasteride, used exclusively in men, works by blocking the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone, a hormone that contributes to hair follicle atrophy. However, its use is becoming less common due to potential side effects. “We no longer like to give out finasteride at the USZ,” says Küng, referring to Zurich University Hospital. “The drug can also have an influence on testosterone levels and therefore leads to libido disorders and potency problems in a small proportion of users.”
Recent research suggests that these sexual side effects may persist even after discontinuing finasteride, a condition known as post-finasteride syndrome. This concern is likely contributing to the shift away from finasteride in illegal imports.
Minoxidil, originally developed as a blood pressure medication, was found to stimulate hair growth. It’s now used by both men and women. According to Küng, it’s generally effective, with users experiencing an average of 10% more hair, and increased thickness. “According to studies, around 80 percent of users are satisfied.”
Lady’s Beard in Case of Overdose
A significant barrier to accessing these treatments is cost. Basic health insurance typically doesn’t cover minoxidil, as baldness is generally considered an aesthetic concern rather than a medical condition. The annual cost of minoxidil can range from 400 to 500 francs, prompting some individuals to seek cheaper alternatives through online sources.
Küng strongly advises against using inexpensive copies sourced from India or China. “You then simply have no idea whether there are any active ingredients in the solution – or whether there are far too few or too many of them.” An overdose of minoxidil can lead to unwanted side effects, particularly in women, including the development of excessive facial hair – a condition often referred to as a “lady’s beard.”
Healthcare professionals emphasize the importance of medical supervision when using these medications. They can explain potential side effects and manage expectations, as minoxidil can initially cause increased hair shedding before ultimately promoting growth. Without proper guidance, patients may discontinue treatment prematurely.
Swissmedic spokesman Alex Josty points out that many individuals importing these products are unaware they are even purchasing medications. “Many people are convinced that these are simple cosmetic products and are completely unaware of the risks, limitations and side effects.”
Without a doctor’s visit for Viagra, cannabis or weight loss injections: Many telemedicine platforms make this possible and thereby avoid hurdles that actually serve to protect patients.
Poisoned Cats
The risks extend beyond human health. A study from Spain documented cases of “werewolf syndrome” – excessive hair growth on the face, legs, or back – in infants whose parents were using minoxidil, with accidental exposure occurring through contact. EU package inserts now include warnings about this potential risk.
The consequences can be even more severe for cats. Ingestion of even small amounts of minoxidil, through licking a treated scalp or resting on a contaminated surface, can lead to serious poisoning and, in some documented cases, death.
Authorities are also observing a change in the origin of illicit shipments. While previously most originated outside of Europe, 40% now come from within Western European countries. This shift is linked to a new scam involving criminal networks hacking legitimate Swiss websites and creating subordinate pages offering erectile dysfunction drugs or redirecting users to foreign sites. “Swissmedic informed the domain owners in 64 cases so that they could take their own responsibility to restore the legal status of their hacked website,” says Josty.
