The Clinical Applications of Five-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors
April 2021
in “
Canadian Journal of Urology
”
Studysummary This review summarizes existing studies on 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, noting their effectiveness in reducing prostate volume and cancer risk but highlighting an increased risk of higher grade prostate cancer.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
Five-alpha reductase inhibitors (5-ARIs), specifically finasteride and dutasteride, have been proven effective in treating benign prostatic hyperplasia, improving voiding symptoms, and reducing the risk of urinary retention and the need for prostate surgery. The Prostate Long Term Efficacy and Safety Study (PLESS) showed that finasteride resulted in a 22% increase in maximum flow rate and a 19% decrease in prostate volume, significantly reducing the risk of surgery and urinary retention over a 4-year period. Similar results were found with dutasteride. The Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial (PCPT) and the Reduction by Dutasteride of Prostate Cancer Events (REDUCE) studies showed that 5-ARIs can reduce the risk of prostate cancer, although they may increase the risk of higher grade prostate cancer. Additionally, a lower dose of finasteride has been effective in treating male pattern baldness.
