TLDR Dutasteride protects dopamine neurons in Parkinson's mice, but Finasteride doesn't.
The study found that Dutasteride, a 5α-reductase inhibitor, protected dopamine neurons in a mouse model of Parkinson's disease, while Finasteride had no effect. Dutasteride prevented the loss of dopamine uptake and storage, and also prevented the decrease in plasma testosterone levels induced by MPTP. The study suggests that Dutasteride may have potential as a treatment for Parkinson's disease.
72 citations,
January 2011 in “Current Pharmaceutical Design” S5αR inhibitors might help treat schizophrenia and other mental disorders but need more research.
14 citations,
May 2008 in “Journal of proteome research” Dutasteride may help reduce brain plaque linked to Alzheimer's by affecting cell energy structures and waste removal.
137 citations,
March 2006 in “Cns Drug Reviews” Finasteride treats enlarged prostate and hair loss, but may cause side effects in some patients.
408 citations,
May 2004 in “The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism/Journal of clinical endocrinology & metabolism” Dutasteride more effectively lowers DHT levels in men with enlarged prostates than finasteride.
98 citations,
April 1997 in “The Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology” Finasteride effectively blocks rat enzymes, but with varying methods and strength.
136 citations,
March 1996 in “Journal of the American Chemical Society” Finasteride effectively blocks enzyme causing male pattern baldness.
83 citations,
April 1992 in “Journal of Biological Chemistry” Four-amino acid part makes enzyme sensitive to finasteride.
27 citations,
May 2015 in “Neuropharmacology” Dutasteride protects dopamine neurons in Parkinson's mice, but Finasteride doesn't.
30 citations,
August 1992 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” Finasteride doesn't affect hormone levels in normal men.
