The Effect of Finasteride on the Secretion of Testosterone, DHT, LH, FSH, and Tissue Factors in the Testis of NMRI Mice

The study examined the impact of finasteride on male fertility and hormone levels in NMRI mice, with groups receiving 1, 5, and 20 mg/kg body weight (BW) of finasteride for 35 days. Significant reductions in dihydrotestosterone (DHT) were observed across all doses, while testosterone levels increased at 5 and 20 mg/kg BW. Both follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels decreased significantly in finasteride-treated groups. Adverse effects on spermatogenesis were noted, particularly at 5 and 20 mg/kg BW, with a marked decrease in sperm count and motility, and a significant reduction in primary spermatocytes, spermatids, and spermatozoids. Spermatogonial cells were notably affected at the highest dose of 20 mg/kg BW. The study concluded that finasteride at doses of 5 mg/kg BW and above could negatively impact male reproductive capabilities.