5α-Reductase: History And Clinical Importance

January 2004 in “ PubMed Central ”

Leonard S. Marks

5α-reductase finasteride dutasteride dihydrotestosterone male pattern baldness androgen-deprivation therapy 5AR Propecia Avodart DHT

TLDR 5α-reductase inhibitors like finasteride and dutasteride effectively treat BPH by reducing DHT levels.

The document discussed the shift in treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) from surgery to drug therapy, highlighting the role of 5α-reductase (5AR) inhibitors like finasteride and dutasteride. These drugs were effective in reducing dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels, which are linked to prostatic growth, acne, facial hair, and male pattern baldness. By inhibiting DHT, these medications provided symptomatic relief and prostatic shrinkage without the side effects of traditional androgen-deprivation therapy. The document also suggested potential future uses for 5AR inhibitors, including prostate cancer chemoprevention and managing BPH-related complications.

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community DHT Itch is real. The connection between Acne and Male Pattern Baldness shows this

in Research/Science 64 upvotes 2 years ago

The conversation discusses the link between seborrheic dermatitis, acne, and male pattern baldness, suggesting that DHT may cause both skin conditions and hair loss. Treatments mentioned include RU58841, finasteride, dutasteride, minoxidil, Nizoral shampoo, and other topical anti-androgens.

community risks with finasteride and dutasteride

in Research/Science 139 upvotes 8 months ago

Finasteride and dutasteride have potential risks, including post-finasteride syndrome, but are commonly used for hair loss. RU58841, minoxidil, and needling are suggested as alternatives, though all treatments carry risks.

community Does finasteride/dutasteride reverse aging?

in Chat 45 upvotes 1 year ago

Finasteride and dutasteride can improve skin texture and reduce acne by lowering DHT but do not reverse aging. They may enhance skin and hair health for some, but can also cause side effects like dry skin and sexual dysfunction.

community Can I still save my hairline at age of 15?

in General 532 upvotes 4 months ago

A 15-year-old is concerned about hair loss, possibly at Norwood 2 or 3, and is using shampoos and conditioners recommended by a trichologist. Suggestions include considering topical minoxidil and consulting a doctor about topical anti-DHT treatments like finasteride or RU58841, but avoiding 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors at this age.

community Dutasteride SAVES your hair follicles: MAJOR BS on people who say it destroyed their hair permanently.

in Finasteride/Dutasteride 159 upvotes 2 years ago

The conversation discusses the effectiveness of hair loss treatments, specifically finasteride and dutasteride. The conclusion is that dutasteride significantly reduces DHT levels and may be more effective than finasteride for long-term hair retention, with some users reporting personal experiences and side effects.

community Evidenced Based Meta-Analyses and Systemic Reviews of Androgenic Alopecia and Treatments

in Research/Science 13 upvotes 5 years ago

Evidence-based treatments for androgenic alopecia, such as minoxidil, finasteride, low-level laser light therapy, dutasteride, platelet-rich plasma, and topical ketoconazole. It discusses the efficacy, safety, and mechanism of action of these treatments, as well as future developments in understanding this polygenic condition.

Related Research

5 / 5 results

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research 5alpha-Reductase: History and Clinical Importance

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5alpha-reductase inhibitors like finasteride and dutasteride effectively treat BPH by reducing DHT, offering symptom relief and potential future uses.

research Long-Term Experience With 5-Alpha-Reductase Inhibitors

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Finasteride reduces prostate size and symptoms with few side effects.

research Current Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

11 citations , January 1995 in “Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy”

TURP is the best treatment for BPH, but some patients prefer medications like alpha-blockers and finasteride.

research Finasteride

86 citations , July 1993 in “Drugs”

Finasteride treats enlarged prostate, shrinks it, improves urination, but may cause sexual dysfunction and isn't for women or children.