Comparison of Clinical Trials with Finasteride and Dutasteride

The document compared finasteride and dutasteride, two drugs used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Finasteride selectively inhibited the Type 2 isoenzyme of 5alpha-reductase, while dutasteride inhibited both Type 1 and Type 2. Dutasteride was found to reduce serum dihydrotestosterone (DHT) more significantly than finasteride. Both drugs resulted in similar reductions in prostate gland volume, improved flow rate, symptom improvement, and reduced long-term risk of BPH progression, including acute urinary retention and the need for surgery. There was no clinically significant difference in the adverse event profiles of the two drugs. Although there was weak evidence suggesting a difference in the onset of clinical benefit, this was not confirmed by non-comparative trial data. Overall, patients treated with either drug, alone or in combination with alpha-blockers, could expect significant improvements in symptoms and reduced risk of long-term adverse outcomes.