| name | 5-alpha Reductase Inhibitors |
| Classification | Androgen Inhibitors, specifically 5-alpha reductase inhibitors. |
| Pharmacokinetics | Absorption varies between individuals. Peak plasma concentrations are typically reached within a few hours after ingestion. Metabolism occurs primarily in the liver, and the metabolites are excreted through the kidneys. Elimination half-life varies with the specific 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, ranging from a few hours to several days. |
| suggested dosage | Dosage varies significantly based on the specific medication. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations. Common dosages for finasteride are 1mg daily and for dutasteride 0.5mg daily. |
| indications | Primarily used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). May be used to reduce the risk of prostate cancer progression in men at high risk. Not indicated for treating acute urinary retention. |
| safety in pregnancy | **Absolutely contraindicated during pregnancy.** Exposure to these drugs during pregnancy may cause significant harm to a developing male fetus. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception. **Do not handle crushed or broken tablets if pregnant or possibly pregnant**. |
| safety in breastfeeding | Limited data are available. These drugs may appear in breast milk. Caution is advised, and consideration of alternative treatments may be appropriate. |
| side effects | | 1 | Decreased libido | | 2 | Erectile dysfunction | | 3 | Ejaculatory dysfunction | | 4 | Gynecomastia (breast enlargement) | | 5 | Headache | | 6 | Dizziness | | 7 | Fatigue | | 8 | Skin rash | | 9 | Possible allergic reactions | | 10 | In rare cases, severe skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome) | | 11 | Mood changes |
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| alternatives | | 1 | | | 2 | | alternative | PDE5 inhibitors | | examples | | | note | PDE5 inhibitors are primarily for erectile dysfunction and not for BPH. |
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| contraindications | | 1 | Known hypersensitivity to 5-alpha reductase inhibitors | | 2 | Pregnancy (women of childbearing potential). | | 3 | Known severe liver disease | | 4 | Patients with a history of severe allergic reactions |
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| interactions | | 1 | Certain medications can alter the metabolism of 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, potentially affecting their efficacy or increasing side effects. Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking. | | 2 | May interact with other drugs affecting liver function |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Regular monitoring of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels is important, particularly if used for prostate cancer risk reduction. | | 2 | Patients should be informed of the potential for sexual side effects and be advised to consult with their doctor if these occur. | | 3 | Monitor for any signs of liver dysfunction. | | 4 | Caution should be exercised in patients with pre-existing conditions like heart failure or kidney disease. | | 5 | Avoid alcohol during treatment as it can exacerbate some side effects. |
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| additional informations | | 1 | Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding dosage and duration of treatment. | | 2 | Regular checkups are essential during treatment to monitor progress and adjust therapy as needed. | | 3 | The efficacy of these medications varies between patients, and outcomes can vary depending on the individual case. |
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| patient profile | |
