TLDR Inhibiting 5α-reductase can help reduce prostate cancer risk and improve treatment.
The review article discussed the role of inhibiting 5α-reductase isoenzymes in preventing and treating prostate cancer, emphasizing that androgens like dihydrotestosterone (DHT) are crucial for prostate growth and disease. Increased expression of 5α-reductase isoenzymes, particularly type 1, was linked to prostate cancer progression. Finasteride and dutasteride, inhibitors of these enzymes, were examined, with finasteride shown to reduce the 7-year risk of prostate cancer, while ongoing studies were evaluating dutasteride's effectiveness. The article concluded that inhibiting 5α-reductase could be a valid strategy for reducing prostate cancer risk and improving treatment outcomes.
58 citations,
March 2006 in “Current topics in medicinal chemistry” Dutasteride effectively treats benign prostatic hyperplasia and may reduce prostate cancer risk.
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.
52 citations,
February 2006 in “Current pharmaceutical design” 5α-reductase inhibitors and alpha-1 adrenergic antagonists together effectively treat benign prostatic hyperplasia, with long-term benefits.
11 citations,
September 2020 in “OncoTargets and Therapy” Dihydrotestosterone increases growth and spread of human brain cancer cells, and blocking its formation might help treat this cancer.
June 2001 in “International Journal of Cosmetic Surgery and Aesthetic Dermatology” Finasteride improves hair growth in men with androgenetic alopecia.
32 citations,
June 2017 in “Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences” Chitosan-coated nanoparticles improve skin delivery of hair loss treatments with fewer side effects.
45 citations,
January 2008 in “Drugs” Dutasteride effectively treats enlarged prostate, reduces prostate cancer risk, and promotes hair regrowth with few side effects.
6 citations,
March 2015 in “Journal of Endocrinological Investigation” Taking both finasteride and dutasteride for prostate issues may raise the risk of heart problems.
