Comparative Effects of Finasteride and Dutasteride on Semen Parameters in Young Men with Androgenic Alopecia: A Randomized Controlled Study
April 2026
in “
The Journal of Urology
”
Studysummary This study found that prolonged use of finasteride and dutasteride in young men with androgenic alopecia is linked to a decline in semen quality over time, particularly affecting sperm motility and DNA integrity, with dutasteride showing a slightly greater impact than finasteride. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.
This study compared the effects of finasteride and dutasteride on semen parameters in 380 young men with androgenic alopecia. Results showed that prolonged treatment with these 5α-reductase inhibitors led to a significant decrease in semen volume, total motility, progressive motility, and vitality, with an increase in DNA fragmentation index over time. Dutasteride had a more pronounced negative impact, especially after 18 months, likely due to its dual inhibition of type I and II 5α-reductase. Sperm concentration and morphology remained unchanged, and hormone levels were stable. The findings suggest that clinicians should be cautious when prescribing these medications to young men concerned about future fertility, recommending periodic semen monitoring during extended use.
