TLDR Women also use 5α-reductase inhibitors, and their effects differ from men.
The document discussed the use of 5α-reductase inhibitors in women, noting that these medications, typically used for conditions like hirsutism and alopecia, can increase estrogen levels. It emphasized the importance of recognizing sex-specific responses to hormonal treatments, as androgen excess in women can lead to cardiometabolic disorders, unlike androgen deficiency in men. The authors acknowledged the limitations of the original study by Welk et al., which focused on men over 65 and excluded younger men and the small number of women using these medications, and supported the need for more broadly generalizable studies.
90 citations
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March 2017 in “JAMA Internal Medicine” Men over 66 taking medication for prostate enlargement have a higher risk of depression and self-harm, especially in the first 18 months of treatment.
November 2017 in “JAMA internal medicine” Women also use 5α-reductase inhibitors for hair loss and hirsutism.
22 citations
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November 2018 in “Breast Cancer Research and Treatment” The medications 5α-reductase inhibitors and spironolactone are generally safe for breast cancer patients on endocrine therapies and do not significantly increase breast cancer risk.
11 citations
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January 2001 in “Cambridge University Press eBooks” Androgens can cause hair growth in some areas but hair loss on the scalp.
47 citations
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August 2000 in “Endocrine Reviews” The document concludes that more research is needed to understand excessive hair growth in women with normal hormone levels and regular ovulation.
78 citations
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January 2000 in “Gynecological Endocrinology” Norgestimate is the most effective birth control progestin for reducing an enzyme linked to acne and excessive hair growth in women.
