Gynecomastia | Causes & Risk Factors

What causes gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is usually caused by changes in hormones at birth, puberty or as part of aging. Gynecomastia may be caused by changes in the balance of 2 hormones: estrogen and testosterone. In adults, the balance of hormones may be affected by:

• Aging
• Disease, such as:
  • Tumors of the adrenal glands, testes or pituitary glands
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Hypogonadism
  • Kidney disease
  • Liver failure
• Medicines, such as:
  • AIDS medicines
  • Anti-anxiety medicines
  • Antibiotics
  • Chemotherapy
  • Some medicines for cardiovascular disease
  • Tricyclic antidepressants
  • Ulcer medicines
• Illegal drugs, such as:
  • Anabolic steroids
  • Amphetamines
  • Heroin
  • Marijuana
• Alcohol