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Yeon B, Suh AY, Choi E, Kim B, Noh E, Chung SY, Han SY. Depression risk associated with the use of 5α-reductase inhibitors versus α-blockers: A retrospective cohort study in South Korea. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0265169. [PMID: 35294468 PMCID: PMC8926175 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0265169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
One of the most prescribed treatments for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is 5α-reductase inhibitors (5ARI). Europe experienced recent safety issues involving 5ARI and depression symptoms, with similar findings being seen in Western countries. The South Korea has updated the drug label in accordance with European recommendations, but the relevant evidence was insufficient. This study compared the use of 5ARI versus α-blocker (AB) as a treatment for BPH and related risks of depression to provide evidence based on the Korean population.
Methods
This was a retrospective cohort study using South Korea’s Health Insurance Review & Assessment Service claim data from 2011 to 2017. New patients diagnosed in men with BPH and taking medications that contained either 5ARI or AB between July 1, 2013, and June 30, 2015, were included (n = 1,461 5ARI; n = 18,650 AB). The primary outcome was depression defined per the 10th revision of the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-10: F32-34, F38, F412, F432). Logistic regression was used to implement 1:1 propensity score (PS) matching of patients taking 5ARI to those taking AB to adjust for confounding. Cox proportional hazard models were used to compare the risk of depression associated with 5ARI versus AB.
Results
Balance in baseline characteristics between the treatment groups were achieved within PS matched pairs (1,461 pairs). Compared to the AB medication group, the 5ARI group had lower depression (HR: 0.69, 95% CI: [0.51–0.92]). However, we could not find a clinically relevant, statistical difference after PS matching (HR: 0.91, 95% CI: [0.61–1.36]).
Conclusions
The risk of depression associated with 5ARI was not meaningfully different from AB in Korea, which suggests that medical officials should provide the most appropriate medication for BPH patients by considering both treatment benefits and depression risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bora Yeon
- Department of Drug Safety Information, Korea Institute of Drug Safety and Risk Management, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Ah Young Suh
- Department of Drug Safety Information, Korea Institute of Drug Safety and Risk Management, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunmi Choi
- Department of Drug Safety Information, Korea Institute of Drug Safety and Risk Management, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Bonggi Kim
- Department of Drug Safety Information, Korea Institute of Drug Safety and Risk Management, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
- * E-mail: (BK); (SYH)
| | - Eunsun Noh
- Department of Relief of Adverse Drug Reaction, Korea Institute of Drug Safety and Risk Management, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo Youn Chung
- Department of Drug Safety Information, Korea Institute of Drug Safety and Risk Management, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Soon Young Han
- Department of Drug Safety Information, Korea Institute of Drug Safety and Risk Management, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
- * E-mail: (BK); (SYH)
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Abstract
Pattern hair loss (PHL) is a condition that worsens with time and the only way it can be slowed down is with pharmacological intervention. Pharmacological treatments for PHL, from an evidenced-based perspective with respect to safety and efficacy, are limited to only two drugs, minoxidil and finasteride. However, there are a host of drugs being used, off-label with limited evidence. This article attempts to review the literature on this topic, and the authors add to this, with their experience of over two decades on incorporating pharmacologic treatments along with hair transplantation in their management of PHL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep Suresh Sattur
- HAIRREVIVE- Centre for Hair Restoration & Skin Rejuvenation, Santacruz West, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Indu Sandeep Sattur
- HAIRREVIVE- Centre for Hair Restoration & Skin Rejuvenation, Santacruz West, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
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Li X, Li B, Ullah MW, Panday R, Cao J, Li Q, Zhang Y, Wang L, Yang G. Water-stable and finasteride-loaded polyvinyl alcohol nanofibrous particles with sustained drug release for improved prostatic artery embolization — In vitro and in vivo evaluation. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2020; 115:111107. [DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2020.111107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2019] [Revised: 04/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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4
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Traish AM. Post-finasteride syndrome: a surmountable challenge for clinicians. Fertil Steril 2020; 113:21-50. [PMID: 32033719 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2019.11.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Revised: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Post-finasteride syndrome (PFS) is a constellation of serious adverse side effects manifested in clinical symptoms that develop and persist in patients during and/or after discontinuing finasteride treatment in men with pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) or benign prostatic hyperplasia. These serious adverse side effects include persistent or irreversible sexual, neurological, physical and mental side effects. To date, there are no evidence-based effective treatments for PFS. Although increasing number of men report persistent side effects, the medical community has yet to recognize this syndrome nor are there any specific measures to address this serious and debilitating symptoms. Here we evaluate the scientific and clinical evidence in the contemporary medical literature to address the very fundamental question: Is PFS a real clinical condition caused by finasteride use or are the reported symptoms only incidentally associated with but not caused by finasteride use? One key indisputable clinical evidence noted in all reported studies with finasteride and dutasteride was that use of these drugs is associated with development of sexual dysfunction, which may persist in a subset of men, irrespective of age, drug dose or duration of study. Also, increased depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation in a subset of men treated with these drugs were commonly reported in a number of studies. It is important to note that many clinical studies suffer from incomplete or inadequate assessment of adverse events and often limited or inaccurate data reporting regarding harm. Based on the existing body of evidence in the contemporary clinical literature, the author believes that finasteride and dutasteride induce a constellation of persistent sexual, neurological and physical adverse side effects, in a subset of men. These constellations of symptoms constitute the basis for PFS in individuals predisposed to epigenetic susceptibility. Indeed, delineating the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying PFS will be of paramount importance to the understanding of this syndrome and to development of potential novel therapeutic modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulmaged M Traish
- Department of Urology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts.
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5
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Pfaff D, Saad F. Sexual motivation: problem solved and new problems introduced. Horm Mol Biol Clin Investig 2020; 41:hmbci-2019-0055. [PMID: 31926079 DOI: 10.1515/hmbci-2019-0055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background During the past 50 years, motivational studies have evolved from the logical inference of logically required "intervening variables" to explain behavioral change, to electrophysiological and molecular analyses of the mechanisms causing such changes. Aim The purpose of this review article is two-fold: first to describe the logic of sexual motivation in a way that applies to laboratory animals as well as humans, and the second is to address some of the problems of sexual motivation experienced by men. Results When problems of motivational mechanisms are stripped down to their essentials, as performed in the laboratory animal models and are available for reductionistic studies, then the problems can be solved with certainty, as illustrated in the first part of this review. However, with respect to human sexual motivation, the various determinants which include so many behavioral routes and so many brain states come into play, that definite conclusions are harder to come by, as illustrated in the second part of this review. Conclusions This review highlights a number of key questions that merit further investigation. These include (a) What mechanisms do cultural and experiential influences interact with androgenic hormone influences on human sexual motivation? (b) How would epigenetic effects in the human brain related to changes in motivation be investigated? (c) What are the effects of unpredictable traumatic and stressful human experiences on sexual motivation; (d) How such mechanisms are activated upon unpredictable traumatic and stressful insults? (e) What are the outstanding differences between sexual motivational drive and motivations driven by homeostatic systems such as hunger and thirst?
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald Pfaff
- Laboratory of Neurobiology and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Farid Saad
- Consultant to Medical Affairs Men's Health/Andrology, Bayer AG, Berlin, Muellerstr. 178, 13353 Berlin, Germany
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Sung HH, Yu J, Kang SJ, Chae MR, So I, Park JK, Lee SW. Persistent Erectile Dysfunction after Discontinuation of 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitor Therapy in Rats Depending on the Duration of Treatment. World J Mens Health 2018; 37:240-248. [PMID: 30588787 PMCID: PMC6479083 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.180082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2018] [Revised: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The current study is aimed to assess whether a longer duration of 5α-reductase inhibitor (5α-RI) exposure was associated with higher rate of permanent erectile dysfunction (ED) in a rat model. Materials and Methods Male Sprague-Dawley rats (n=76) were assigned to five groups: (i) normal control group; (ii) dutasteride (0.5 mg/rat/d) for 4-weeks group; (iii) dutasteride for 4-weeks plus 2-weeks of resting group; (iv) dutasteride for 8-weeks group; and (v) dutasteride for 8-weeks plus 2-weeks of resting group. In vivo erectile responses to electrical stimulation, and changes of fibrotic factors and smooth muscle/collagen contents in the corpus cavernosum were evaluated in each group. Results Dutasteride administration for 4 and 8 weeks significantly decreased erectile parameters compared with the control group. Reduced erectile responses were recovered during 2 weeks of drug-free time in the 4-week treatment group, but were not in the 8-week group. Protein levels of fibrosis-related factors transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, TGF-β2, and p-Smad/Smad (Smad 2/3) in the corpus cavernosum showed no significant change after 4 weeks of dutasteride oral administration, but were enhanced after 8 weeks. Dutasteride markedly decreased smooth muscle content and increased collagen after 4 and 8 weeks of use, but no nuclear size changes; however, neither group showed significant improvement in the smooth muscle to collagen ratio after the rest period. Conclusions Our study showed that recovery from ED depended on the duration of medication, and administration of dutasteride for more than 8-weeks in rats could result in irreversible ED even after discontinuation of medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Hwan Sung
- Department of Urology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jiwoong Yu
- Department of Urology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Su Jeong Kang
- Department of Urology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Mee Ree Chae
- Department of Urology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Insuk So
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jong Kwan Park
- Department of Urology, Chonbuk National University College of Medicine and Research Institute of Clinical Medicine of Chonbuk National University-Biomedical Research Institute and Clinical Trial Center of Medical Device of Chonbuk National University, Jeonju, Korea
| | - Sung Won Lee
- Department of Urology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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Shin YS, Karna KK, Choi BR, Park JK. Finasteride and Erectile Dysfunction in Patients with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia or Male Androgenetic Alopecia. World J Mens Health 2018; 37:157-165. [PMID: 30209896 PMCID: PMC6479090 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.180029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Revised: 05/08/2018] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Finasteride is primarily used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and male androgenetic alopecia (MAA). Five-alpha reductase inhibitors (5α-RIs) could induce male sexual dysfunction due to their effects on testosterone and dihydrotestosterone. There is evidence suggesting that 5α-RIs may independently increase the risk of erectile dysfunction (ED). However, many investigators believe that side effects of 5α-RIs will disappear with continuous treatment. Considerable controversy exists regarding the severity and persistence of side effects of finasteride on ED. The aim of this review was to summarize current research studies on finasteride associated with ED. The search strategy used each term of finasteride and ED against PubMed database to identify related studies. ED data reported from available trials for finasteride were summarized and reviewed. Although there is not enough evidence to prove the relationship between finasteride and ED, most studies in this review found that finasteride for BPH was correlated with ED. However, most studies included in this review revealed that finasteride for MAA was not correlated with ED. On the other hand, some studies reported side effects of finasteride associated with sexual dysfunction, including ED, male infertility, ejaculation problem, and loss of libido, even in MAA patients. Well-designed randomized controlled trials are needed to further determine the mechanism and effects of finasteride on ED. However, physicians should discuss with their patients possible long-term effects of finasteride on sexual function, although we do not have evidence showing that adverse events of sexual dysfunction are absolutely associated with 5α-RIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Seob Shin
- Department of Urology, Chonbuk National University Medical School and Research Institute of Clinical Medicine of Chonbuk National University-Biomedical Research Institute and Clinical Trial Center of Medical Device of Chonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju, Korea
| | - Keshab Kumar Karna
- Department of Urology, Chonbuk National University Medical School and Research Institute of Clinical Medicine of Chonbuk National University-Biomedical Research Institute and Clinical Trial Center of Medical Device of Chonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju, Korea
| | - Bo Ram Choi
- Department of Urology, Chonbuk National University Medical School and Research Institute of Clinical Medicine of Chonbuk National University-Biomedical Research Institute and Clinical Trial Center of Medical Device of Chonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju, Korea
| | - Jong Kwan Park
- Department of Urology, Chonbuk National University Medical School and Research Institute of Clinical Medicine of Chonbuk National University-Biomedical Research Institute and Clinical Trial Center of Medical Device of Chonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju, Korea.
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8
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Traish AM. The Post-finasteride Syndrome: Clinical Manifestation of Drug-Induced Epigenetics Due to Endocrine Disruption. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-018-0161-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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10
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Santi D, Spaggiari G, Gilioli L, Potì F, Simoni M, Casarini L. Molecular basis of androgen action on human sexual desire. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 467:31-41. [PMID: 28893567 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2017] [Revised: 09/07/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Reproduction is a fundamental process for the species maintenance and the propagation of genetic information. The energy expenditure for mating is overtaken by motivational stimuli, such as orgasm, finely regulated by steroid hormones, gonadotropins, neurotransmitters and molecules acting in the brain and peripheral organs. These functions are often investigated using animal models and translated to humans, where the androgens action is mediated by nuclear and membrane receptors converging in the regulation of both long-term genomic and rapid non-genomic signals. In both sexes, testosterone is a central player of this game and is involved in the regulation of sexual desire and arousal, and, finally, in reproduction through cognitive and peripheral physiological mechanisms which may decline with aging and circadian disruption. Finally, genetic variations impact on reproductive behaviours, resulting in sex-specific effect and different reproductive strategies. In this review, androgen actions on sexual desire are evaluated, focusing on the molecular levels of interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Santi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Endocrinology, Metabolism and Geriatrics, Azienda OU of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Giorgia Spaggiari
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Endocrinology, Metabolism and Geriatrics, Azienda OU of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Lisa Gilioli
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Francesco Potì
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Endocrinology, Metabolism and Geriatrics, Azienda OU of Modena, Modena, Italy; Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
| | - Livio Casarini
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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11
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Walf AA, Kaurejo S, Frye CA. Research Brief: Self-Reports of a Constellation of Persistent Antiandrogenic, Estrogenic, Physical, and Psychological Effects of Finasteride Usage Among Men. Am J Mens Health 2018; 12:900-906. [PMID: 29318957 PMCID: PMC6131463 DOI: 10.1177/1557988317750989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Our research objective is to understand more, through subjective, self-reports on discussion boards/forums, persons' experiences associated with the use of drugs that alter androgen metabolism, such as finasteride. Finasteride is an orally active, specific inhibitor of 5α-reductase, which is localized to many androgen-dependent tissues. Finasteride inhibits the conversion of testosterone (T) to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and is commonly used to treat benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) and male pattern baldness (MPB), both disorders associated with elevated DHT levels and 5α-reductase activity in the prostate and hair follicles, respectively. It is now acknowledged that long-term use and discontinuation of finasteride has adverse effects (AEs); however, these claims have not been well documented. In this study, discussion board posts (forums) were analyzed as self-reports of what finasteride users indicate is problematic for them. Reports were categorized by the age of subjects as well as the types of AEs described: antiandrogenic, estrogenic, central, and nonspecific/severe. A total of 244 cases were recorded and analyzed on the discussion forum on propeciahelp.com . Among these, 74 (32%) cases reported antiandrogenic affects, 43 (19%) reported estrogenic effects, 70 (30%) reported central effects, 11 (5%) reported nonspecific/severe AEs, and 31 (14%) reported AEs in all categories. The categorization of AEs may prompt further investigation into the pathophysiology of post-finasteride syndrome (PFS). Also, subjective reports may engender greater understanding of the perceived lasting AEs of finasteride.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia A. Walf
- Departments of Psychology, The
University at Albany-SUNY, Albany, NY, USA
- Department of Cognitive Science,
Rensselaer, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Shan Kaurejo
- Departments of Psychology, The
University at Albany-SUNY, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Cheryl A. Frye
- Departments of Psychology, The
University at Albany-SUNY, Albany, NY, USA
- The Centers for Life Sciences, The
University at Albany-SUNY, Albany, NY, USA
- Neuroscience Research, The University at
Albany-SUNY, Albany, NY, USA
- Biological Sciences, The University at
Albany-SUNY, Albany, NY, USA
- Cheryl A. Frye, Ph.D., The University at
Albany, 1400 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12222, USA.
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13
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Zou Y, Aboshora W, Li J, Xiao T, Zhang L. Protective Effects of Lepidium meyenii
(Maca) Aqueous Extract and Lycopene on Testosterone Propionate-Induced Prostatic Hyperplasia in Mice. Phytother Res 2017. [DOI: 10.1002/ptr.5838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology; Jiangnan University; Wuxi 214122 China
- School of Food Science and Technology; Jiangnan University; Wuxi 214122 China
| | - Waleed Aboshora
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology; Jiangnan University; Wuxi 214122 China
- National Engineering Research Center for Functional Food; Jiangnan University; Wuxi 214122 China
- Department of Food Processing Engineering, Faculty of Engineering; University of Al-Imam Almahdi; PO Box 209 Kosti Sudan
| | - Jing Li
- School of Food Science and Technology; Jiangnan University; Wuxi 214122 China
- National Engineering Research Center for Functional Food; Jiangnan University; Wuxi 214122 China
| | - Tiancun Xiao
- Chemistry Department; Oxford University; South Parks Road OX1 3QR Oxford UK
| | - Lianfu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology; Jiangnan University; Wuxi 214122 China
- School of Food Science and Technology; Jiangnan University; Wuxi 214122 China
- National Engineering Research Center for Functional Food; Jiangnan University; Wuxi 214122 China
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14
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Traish AM, Melcangi RC, Bortolato M, Garcia-Segura LM, Zitzmann M. Adverse effects of 5α-reductase inhibitors: What do we know, don't know, and need to know? Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2015; 16:177-98. [PMID: 26296373 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-015-9319-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Steroids are important physiological orchestrators of endocrine as well as peripheral and central nervous system functions. One of the key processes for regulation of these molecules lies in their enzymatic processing by a family of 5α-reductase (5α-Rs) isozymes. By catalyzing a key rate-limiting step in steroidogenesis, this family of enzymes exerts a crucial role not only in the physiological control but also in pathological events. Indeed, both 5α-R inhibition and supplementation of 5α-reduced metabolites are currently used or have been proposed as therapeutic strategies for a wide array of pathological conditions. In particular, the potent 5α-R inhibitors finasteride and dutasteride are used in the treatments of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), as well as in male pattern hair loss (MPHL) known as androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Recent preclinical and clinical findings indicate that 5α-R inhibitors evoke not only beneficial, but also adverse effects. Future studies should investigate the biochemical and physiological mechanisms that underlie the persistence of the adverse sexual side effects to determine why a subset of patients is afflicted with such persistence or irreversible adverse effects. Also a better focus of clinical research is urgently needed to better define those subjects who are likely to be adversely affected by such agents. Furthermore, research on the non-sexual adverse effects such as diabetes, psychosis, depression, and cognitive function are needed to better understand the broad spectrum of the effects these drugs may elicit during their use in treatment of AGA or BPH. In this review, we will summarize the state of art on this topic, overview the key unresolved questions that have emerged on the pharmacological targeting of these enzymes and their products, and highlight the need for further studies to ascertain the severity and duration of the adverse effects of 5α-R inhibitors, as well as their biological underpinnings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulmaged M Traish
- Department of Biochemistry and Department of Urology, Boston University School of Medicine, 715 Albany Street, A502, Boston, MA, 02118, USA.
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences- Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Iniversità degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Bortolato
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | | | - Michael Zitzmann
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Clinics Muenster, Domagkstrasse 11, D-48149, Muenster, Germany
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15
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Post-SSRI Sexual Dysfunction: Clinical Characterization and Preliminary Assessment of Contributory Factors and Dose-Response Relationship. J Clin Psychopharmacol 2015; 35:273-8. [PMID: 25815755 DOI: 10.1097/jcp.0000000000000300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Emerging evidence suggests that sexual dysfunction emerging during treatment with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and/or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) persists in some patients beyond drug discontinuation (post-SSRI sexual dysfunction [PSSD]). We sought to identify and characterize a series of such cases and explore possible explanatory factors and exposure-response relationship. Subjects who responded to an invitation in a forum dedicated to PSSD filled out a survey via online software. Case probability was defined according to the following 3 categories of increasing presumed likelihood of PSSD. Noncases did not meet the criteria for possible cases. Possible cases were subjects with normal pretreatment sexual function who first experienced sexual disturbances while using a single SSRI/SNRI, which did not resolve upon drug discontinuation for 1 month or longer as indicated by Arizona Sexual Experience Scale scores. High-probability cases were also younger than 50-year-olds; did not have confounding medical conditions, medications, or drug use; and had normal scores on the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Five hundred thirty-two (532) subjects completed the survey, among which 183 possible cases were identified, including 23 high-probability cases. Female sex, genital anesthesia, and depression predicted current sexual dysfunction severity, but dose/defined daily dose ratio and anxiety did not. Genital anesthesia did not correlate with depression or anxiety, but pleasureless orgasm was an independent predictor of both depression and case probability. Limitations of the study include retrospective design and selection and report biases that do not allow generalization or estimation of incidence. However, our findings add to previous reports and support the existence of PSSD, which may not be fully explained by alternative nonpharmacological factors related to sexual dysfunction, including depression and anxiety.
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16
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Goldstein I. Sexual Medicine Reviews-The Premiere Review Journal for the Field of Sexual Medicine. Sex Med Rev 2015; 3:1-2. [PMID: 27784567 DOI: 10.1002/smrj.40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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17
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Traish AM, Mulgaonkar A, Giordano N. The dark side of 5α-reductase inhibitors' therapy: sexual dysfunction, high Gleason grade prostate cancer and depression. Korean J Urol 2014; 55:367-79. [PMID: 24955220 PMCID: PMC4064044 DOI: 10.4111/kju.2014.55.6.367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2014] [Accepted: 04/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
With aging, abnormal benign growth of the prostate results in benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) with concomitant lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Because the prostate is an androgen target tissue, and transforms testosterone into 5α-dihydrotestosterone (5α-DHT), a potent androgen, via 5α-reductase (5α-R) activity, inhibiting this key metabolic reaction was identified as a target for drug development to treat symptoms of BPH. Two drugs, namely finasteride and dutasteride were developed as specific 5α-reductase inhibitors (5α-RIs) and were approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of BPH symptoms. These agents have proven useful in the reducing urinary retention and minimizing surgical intervention in patients with BPH symptoms and considerable literature exists describing the benefits of these agents. In this review we highlight the adverse side effects of 5α-RIs on sexual function, high grade prostate cancer incidence, central nervous system function and on depression. 5α-Rs isoforms (types 1-3) are widely distributed in many tissues including the central nervous system and inhibition of these enzymes results in blockade of synthesis of several key hormones and neuro-active steroids leading to a host of adverse effects, including loss of or reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, orgasmic dysfunction, increased high Gleason grade prostate cancer, observed heart failure and cardiovascular events in clinical trials, and depression. Considerable evidence exists from preclinical and clinical studies, which point to significant and serious adverse effects of 5α-RIs, finasteride and dutasteride, on sexual health, vascular health, psychological health and the overall quality of life. Physicians need to be aware of such potential adverse effects and communicate such information to their patients prior to commencing 5α-RIs therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulmaged M Traish
- Department of Urology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA. ; Division of Graduate Medical Sciences, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ashwini Mulgaonkar
- Division of Graduate Medical Sciences, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nicholas Giordano
- Division of Graduate Medical Sciences, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
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Ganzer CA, Jacobs AR, Iqbal F. Persistent Sexual, Emotional, and Cognitive Impairment Post-Finasteride. Am J Mens Health 2014; 9:222-8. [DOI: 10.1177/1557988314538445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Finasteride is a synthetic 5-α reductase inhibitor, which prevents the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone and has been used for more than 20 years in the treatment of male pattern hair loss. Randomized, controlled trials have associated finasteride with both reversible and persistent adverse effects. In this pilot study, we sought to characterize sexual and nonsexual adverse effects that men reported experiencing at least 3 months after stopping the medication. Based on previous research on persistent side effects of finasteride, we constructed an Internet survey targeting six domains: physical symptoms, sexual libido, ejaculatory disorders, disorders of the penis and testes, cognitive symptoms, and psychological symptoms and was e-mailed to patients who reported experiencing symptoms of side effects of finasteride. Responses from 131 generally healthy men (mean age, 24 years) who had taken finasteride for male pattern hair loss was included in the analysis. The most notable finding was that adverse effects persisted in each of the domains, indicating the possible presence of a “post-finasteride syndrome.”
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Farin Iqbal
- Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing, New York, NY, USA
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