What's the Deal with 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors?
Published: Feb 09, 2024
Medically reviewed by Jerome Albert Ecker | MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Duke University - Durham, NC on February 9th, 2024.
5-alpha reductase inhibitors (5-ARIs) are a key treatment for BPH. Learn how they work and who benefits most.
Contents
How 5-ARIs Work
5-ARIs reduce the size of an enlarged prostate by blocking hormones that cause growth. This can improve urinary symptoms and reduce the need for surgery. Common 5-ARIs include finasteride and dutasteride.
Efficacy and Use
5-ARIs are effective in men with significantly enlarged prostates. They lower prostate volume and slow disease progression, minimizing the risk of acute urinary retention. These benefits make them crucial in long-term BPH management.
Potential Side Effects
Side effects of 5-ARIs can include sexual dysfunction and decreased libido. Some patients report persistent symptoms even after stopping the medication. It's important to discuss these potential impacts with a healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
5-ARIs shrink the prostate by blocking growth hormones.
Men with significantly enlarged prostates see the most benefit.
Yes, possible side effects include sexual dysfunction.
They may take several months for full effect.
Key Takeaways
5-ARIs are vital for managing BPH but require a careful look at potential side effects.
Discuss 5-ARIs with Doctronic to see if they're right for your BPH treatment plan.Related Articles
References
Nickel JC, Gilling P, Tammela TL, et al. EPICS study. BJU Int 2011; 108:388.
McConnell JD, Roehrborn CG, Bruskewitz R, et al. N Engl J Med 1998; 338:557.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.