Evaluating Histological Modifications of Testis and Spermatogenesis in Adult Male Rats on Finasteride

The study investigated the effects of finasteride on testis histology and spermatogenesis in 40 mature male Sprague-Dawley rats divided into five groups. Finasteride, a 5-α-reductase inhibitor, was administered in doses of 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg for 32 days. Results showed that doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg significantly decreased the number of spermatogonia, and 50 mg/kg reduced primary spermatocytes. There was a significant increase in Leydig cells across all experimental groups, but no significant changes in Sertoli cells or other histological features of the testis. The study concluded that short-term use of finasteride might not adversely affect male fertility.