C19 and C21 5β/5α Metabolite Ratios in Subjects Treated with the 5α-Reductase Inhibitor Finasteride: Comparison of Male Pseudohermaphrodites with Inherited 5α-Reductase Deficiency

This study compares the effects of finasteride on male pseudohermaphrodites with inherited 5α-reductase deficiency and normal males. Finasteride reduces 5α-dihydrotestosterone levels and affects plasma testosterone levels and urinary etiocholanolone/androsterone ratios. The study suggests that finasteride may be effective in treating male pattern baldness. Finasteride inhibits 5α-reductase, leading to decreased DHT levels and increased T/DHT ratios in treated subjects. The study found that finasteride reduces DHT levels and affects the metabolism of specific steroids in subjects. Finasteride may be less effective in treating hair loss in individuals with 5α-reductase deficiency.