5α-Reductase: History And Clinical Importance

January 2004 in “ PubMed Central ”

Leonard S. Marks

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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