The Effect of 5α-Reductase Inhibition With Dutasteride and Finasteride on Bone Mineral Density, Serum Lipoproteins, Hemoglobin, Prostate Specific Antigen, and Sexual Function in Healthy Young Men

In a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial involving 99 men aged 18 to 55, the effects of the 5α-reductase inhibitors dutasteride (0.5 mg) and finasteride (5 mg) on bone mineral density, serum lipoproteins, hemoglobin, prostate specific antigen (PSA), and sexual function were examined over a period of one year, with a follow-up six months after discontinuation of the drugs. The study found that while both drugs significantly suppressed serum dihydrotestosterone levels, they did not significantly affect bone mineral density, bone metabolism markers, serum lipoproteins, or hemoglobin levels. There was a slight, reversible decrease in serum PSA and a minimal impact on sexual function during treatment. The results suggest that dihydrotestosterone does not play a clinically significant role in bone mass, hematopoiesis, or lipid metabolism in healthy men.