TLDR Finasteride almost fully depletes allopregnanolone in rat brains and enhances 20α-DHP, but doesn't change 3α-DHP levels.
This study examined the effects of finasteride on rat brain neurosteroid levels and metabolism. The study found that a 10 mg/kg dose of finasteride can almost completely deplete allopregnanolone in the rat brains, and 20α-DHP is enhanced when the 5α-reduction pathway is inhibited during the PROG metabolism in the brains. However, no change was found in the brain level of 3α-DHP by the administration of finasteride.
Cited in this study
2 / 2 results
137 citations
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March 2006 in “Cns Drug Reviews” Finasteride treats enlarged prostate and hair loss, but may cause side effects in some patients.
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April 1997 in “The Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology” Finasteride effectively blocks rat enzymes, but with varying methods and strength.
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February 2014 in “The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology” 
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November 2011 in “Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research” Three drugs change mice's alcohol drinking patterns by affecting GABAA receptors.
61 citations
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September 2008 in “Biological & Pharmaceutical Bulletin” Finasteride almost fully depletes allopregnanolone in rat brains and enhances 20α-DHP, but doesn't change 3α-DHP levels.
34 citations
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May 2007 in “Neuroscience” Finasteride reduces alcohol withdrawal severity in male mice but increases it in female mice.
26 citations
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November 2006 in “Pharmacology, Biochemistry and Behavior” Pregnancy reduces anxiety in rats, but finasteride reverses this effect.
Finasteride, a medication, is being re-evaluated for its effects and uses.
