The Long-Term Effect Of Specific Type II 5α-Reductase Inhibition With Finasteride on Bone Mineral Density in Men: Results of a 4-Year Placebo Controlled Trial
May 2002
in “The Journal of Urology”
TLDR Finasteride doesn't harm bone density in older men with BPH.
This study examined the long-term effects of finasteride, a type II 5α-reductase inhibitor, on bone mineral density in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia. The study involved 157 patients who were randomized to receive either finasteride or a placebo for four years. The results showed that long-term inhibition of type II 5α-reductase with finasteride did not adversely affect bone mineral density. The study concluded that long-term inhibition of type II 5α-reductase with reduced dihydrotestosterone does not adversely affect bone mineral density in older men with BPH.
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Cited in this study
research The Effect of Finasteride on the Risk of Acute Urinary Retention and the Need for Surgical Treatment among Men with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Finasteride reduces urinary issues and surgery need in men with enlarged prostates by over 50%.
research Bone density is normal in male rats treated with finasteride
Finasteride doesn't affect bone density in male rats.
research Prolonged treatment with finasteride (a 5α-reductase inhibitor) does not affect bone density and metabolism
Long-term finasteride use doesn't change bone density or metabolism.
research The Effect of Finasteride in Men with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Finasteride effectively treats BPH but may increase sexual dysfunction risk.
research Effects of Finasteride (MK-906), a 5α-Reductase Inhibitor, on Circulating Androgens in Male Volunteers*
Finasteride safely lowers DHT levels without affecting testosterone.