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The Impact of the 5α-Reductase Inhibitors (5α-RIs) on Male Sexual Function and Psychological Well-Being

  • Male Sexual Dysfunction and Disorders (SE Althof and AW Pastuszak, Section Editors)
  • Published:
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Abstract

5α-Reductase inhibitors (5α-RIs) such as finasteride and dutasteride have proven useful in clinical management of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and also in treatment of androgenetic alopecia (AGA). However, these drugs have serious and, in some patients, persistent or irreversible sexual side effects. These agents interfere with the biosynthesis and metabolism of neurosteroids and may adversely affect mood, stress, and anxiety and potentiate the onset of depression. Data from preclinical and clinical studies have provided substantial evidence that these agents cause loss or reduction of libido, increase the risk of erectile dysfunction and ejaculatory dysfunction, and may contribute to the onset of depression. It is imperative that clinicians give serious considerations to these adverse effects and their impact on patients’ health and engage their patients in an open and honest discussion regarding the potential harm of these agents prior to prescribing them.

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Abdulmaged M. Traish declares no conflict of interest.

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  1. Department of Biochemistry, Boston University School of Medicine, 715 Albany Street, A502, Boston, MA, 02118, USA

    Abdulmaged M. Traish

  2. Department of Urology, Boston University School of Medicine, 715 Albany Street, A502, Boston, MA, 02118, USA

    Abdulmaged M. Traish

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This article is part of the Topical Collection on Male Sexual Dysfunction and Disorders

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Traish, A.M. The Impact of the 5α-Reductase Inhibitors (5α-RIs) on Male Sexual Function and Psychological Well-Being. Curr Sex Health Rep 7, 210–219 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11930-015-0061-y

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