Pharmacological Role and Clinical Applications of 5α-Reductase Inhibitors: Review Article for Pharmacists and Healthcare Professionals
July 2025
TLDR 5α-reductase inhibitors effectively treat enlarged prostate and hair loss but require careful use due to possible side effects.
5α-reductase inhibitors (5-ARIs), such as finasteride and dutasteride, are effective in treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and androgenic alopecia by preventing the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). They can reduce prostate volume by about 25% and stabilize hair loss in 88% of alopecia patients. Although dutasteride offers broader DHT suppression, its clinical efficacy is similar to finasteride. Adverse effects like sexual dysfunction and gynecomastia require careful patient selection and monitoring. While off-label uses such as hirsutism and bladder cancer prevention show promise, more research is needed. Overall, 5-ARIs are crucial for managing BPH and androgenic alopecia, necessitating a personalized risk-benefit assessment and multidisciplinary collaboration for optimal outcomes.
