Clinical Use of 5α-Reductase Inhibitors

The document reviewed the clinical use of 5α-reductase inhibitors, particularly finasteride, for treating androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Finasteride was shown to significantly reduce dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels, leading to increased hair growth in men with AGA and reduced prostate volume in men with BPH. Long-term studies confirmed its efficacy and safety, with mild and transient side effects, primarily related to sexual function. Finasteride was ineffective in treating acne and postmenopausal women with AGA. The document also discussed the potential of finasteride in reducing prostate cancer incidence, though with a slight increase in high-grade cancers. Dutasteride, another 5α-reductase inhibitor, was approved for BPH but not AGA.