TLDR DHT is a strong androgen that may pose less risk to the prostate compared to testosterone.
5α-Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) was noted to be a potent androgen with three to six times the biopotency of testosterone, yet it appeared to be prostate-sparing. Unlike testosterone, DHT did not undergo further amplification in the prostate and likely led to less aromatisation to oestradiol, potentially reducing the risk of benign prostate hyperplasia and prostate cancer. Despite reducing circulating oestradiol levels, DHT maintained levels sufficient for bone mineral density. Its effects on erythropoiesis and lipids were similar to testosterone, and safety concerns were comparable, though DHT's impact on the prostate was likely less potent.
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.
280 citations,
May 2005 in “Andrology” Testosterone treatment for older men can have short-term benefits, but long-term risks are unclear, requiring careful evaluation and monitoring.
658 citations,
June 2003 in “Endocrine reviews” Male hormones may play a role in the development of heart disease, and more research is needed to understand their effects.
54 citations,
July 2002 in “Clinical and Experimental Dermatology” DHT, a testosterone byproduct, causes male pattern baldness.
50 citations,
February 2013 in “Annals of Clinical Biochemistry” Understanding how DHT works is important for diagnosing and treating hormone-related disorders.
97 citations,
April 2016 in “Andrology” Hormones and metabolism play a complex role in prostate enlargement, and more research is needed to improve diagnosis and treatment.
101 citations,
April 1994 in “Baillière's clinical endocrinology and metabolism” 5α-reductase is essential for male sexual development and its inhibitors have potential in treating various conditions related to hormone action.
10 citations,
October 2010 in “International Journal of Andrology” Finasteride doesn't affect oral testosterone undecanoate, and high DHT levels may cause acne, prostate issues, and hair loss.
