Health Risks Associated with Long-Term Finasteride and Dutasteride Use: It's Time to Sound the Alarm

January 2020 in “ The World Journal of Men's Health ”

Abdulmaged M. Traish

From the encyclopedia

Frontline, gold standard treatment for combatting androgenic alopecia

Heavy duty finasteride that comes with higher risks

Studysummary This article discusses the potential health risks associated with long-term use of finasteride and dutasteride for prostate and hair loss treatments, suggesting risks may include non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and other metabolic issues.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

The document highlighted significant health risks associated with long-term use of finasteride and dutasteride, commonly prescribed for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and androgenetic alopecia (AGA). These drugs induced a novel form of androgen deficiency, leading to various metabolic dysfunctions such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), insulin resistance (IR), type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), dry eye disease, and potential kidney dysfunction. Studies in both animal models and human subjects indicated liver lipid accumulation, impaired glucose disposal, and increased risk of T2DM. A cohort study of 230 men treated with dutasteride for 36-42 months showed increased blood glucose, cholesterol levels, and liver enzyme activities. The review called for heightened awareness of these potential adverse effects and reconsideration of prolonged use of these medications.

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