5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors
5-alpha reductase inhibitors (5-ARIs) are medications that can shrink an enlarged prostate gland. This medication works by preventing the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that plays a role in prostate gland growth. Finasteride (Proscar, Propecia) and dutasteride (Avodart) are the two 5-ARIs available.
In addition, 5-ARIs are indicated for use in men with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). They may be used alone or in combination with other benign prostatic hyperplasia treatments, such as alpha-blockers. The starting dose of finasteride is 5 mg daily, while it is 0.5 mg daily for dutasteride. Side effects of 5-ARIs include decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction, ejaculatory dysfunction, and gynecomastia.
To use 5-ARIs properly, they must be taken as prescribed by a healthcare provider. In addition, 5-ARIs take several weeks to months to work. These medications must be taken regularly to maintain their effect on the prostate gland. Men should not stop taking 5-ARIs without first talking to their healthcare provider, as this may cause the enlarged prostate gland to grow larger again.
