Alternatives to Surgery

There are a number of drugs that are known to induce gynecomastia. These can include various types of antibiotics, antiulcer drugs, growth hormones, and chemotherapy. Also, adolescents who use anabolic steroids, or who abuse alcohol, marijuana, heroin, or amphetamines, might be affected in this way. If the condition is very early stage it is sometimes possible to stop its development by discontinuing their use. Regardless of the type of drug being used, it is important to discuss the situation with your doctor.

Certain medications prescribed for female breast cancer have been used with some success for gynecomastia. These include Tamoxifen and Raloxifene, used to modify estrogen receptors. They can be helpful for cases where the patient’s metabolism is generating excess testosterone that is subsequently breaking down into estrogen like by-products. Other preparations that have been suggested for treatments include dihydrotestosterone, danazol, clomiphene, and aromatase inhibitors such as testolactone and anastrozole. Their efficacy is not well studied and they have potential adverse side effects. These options should only be considered with your doctor because for safety they require proper testing and monitoring.

There is some anecdotal evidence that certain supplements may be helpful. Examples include fish oil, turmeric, zinc, passion flower, milk thistle, flaxseeds, dandelion, Epsom salt, and cold compresses. These claims, however, are not supported by any credible published medical studies.