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Giatti S, Cioffi L, Diviccaro S, Piazza R, Melcangi RC. Analysis of the finasteride treatment and its withdrawal in the rat hypothalamus and hippocampus at whole-transcriptome level. J Endocrinol Invest 2024:10.1007/s40618-024-02345-y. [PMID: 38493246 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-024-02345-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE As reported in patients treated for androgenetic alopecia with finasteride (i.e., a blocker of the enzyme 5 alpha-reductase) and in an animal model, side effects affecting sexual, psychiatric, neurological, and physical domains, may occur during the treatment and persist with drug suspension. The etiopathogenesis of these side effects has been poorly explored. Therefore, we performed a genome-wide analysis of finasteride effects in the brain of adult male rat. METHODS Animals were treated (i.e., for 20 days) with finasteride (1mg/rat/day). 24 h after the last treatment and 1 month after drug suspension, RNA sequencing analysis was performed in hypothalamus and hippocampus. Data were analyzed by differential expression analysis and Gene-Set Enrichment Analyses (GSEA). RESULTS Data obtained after finasteride treatment showed that 186 genes (i.e., 171 up- and 15 downregulated) and 19 (i.e., 17 up- and 2 downregulated) were differentially expressed in the hypothalamus and hippocampus, respectively. Differential expression analysis at the drug withdrawal failed to identify dysregulated genes. Several gene-sets were enriched in these brain areas at both time points. CONCLUSION Some of the genes reported to be differentially expressed (i.e., TTR, DIO2, CLDN1, CLDN2, SLC4A5, KCNE2, CROT, HCRT, MARCKSL1, VGF, IRF2BPL) and GSEA, suggest a potential link with specific side effects previously observed in patients and in the animal model, such as depression, anxiety, disturbance in memory and attention, and sleep disturbance. These data may provide an important background for future experiments aimed at confirming the pathological role of these genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - L Cioffi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - S Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - R Piazza
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - R C Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy.
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2
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Gül M, Fode M, Urkmez A, Capogrosso P, Falcone M, Sarikaya S, Sokolakis I, Morgado A, Morozov A, Albersen M, Russo GI, Serefoglu EC. A clinical guide to rare male sexual disorders. Nat Rev Urol 2024; 21:35-49. [PMID: 37670085 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-023-00803-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
Conditions referred to as 'male sexual dysfunctions' usually include erectile dysfunction, ejaculatory disorders and male hypogonadism. However, some less common male sexual disorders exist, which are under-recognized and under-treated, leading to considerable morbidity, with adverse effects on individuals' sexual health and relationships. Such conditions include post-finasteride syndrome, restless genital syndrome, post-orgasmic illness syndrome, post-selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) sexual dysfunction, hard-flaccid syndrome, sleep-related painful erections and post-retinoid sexual dysfunction. Information about these disorders usually originates from case-control trials or small case series; thus, the published literature is scarce. As the aetiology of these diseases has not been fully elucidated, the optimal investigational work-up and therapy are not well defined, and the available options cannot, therefore, adequately address patients' sexual problems and implement appropriate treatment. Thus, larger-scale studies - including prospective trials and comprehensive case registries - are crucial to better understand the aetiology, prevalence and clinical characteristics of these conditions. Furthermore, collaborative efforts among researchers, health-care professionals and patient advocacy groups will be essential in order to develop evidence-based guidelines and novel therapeutic approaches that can effectively address these disorders. By advancing our understanding and refining treatment strategies, we can strive towards improving the quality of life and fostering healthier sexual relationships for individuals suffering from these rare sexual disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murat Gül
- Department of Urology, Selcuk University School of Medicine, Urology, Konya, Turkey.
| | - Mikkel Fode
- Department of Urology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ahmet Urkmez
- Department of Urology, St. Elizabeth's Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Paolo Capogrosso
- Department of Urology, ASST Sette Laghi, Circolo and Fondazione Macchi Hospital, Varese, Italy
| | - Marco Falcone
- Department of Urology, Molinette Hospital, Città della Salute e della Scienza, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Selcuk Sarikaya
- Department of Urology, Gulhane Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ioannis Sokolakis
- 2nd Department of Urology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Medical School Thessaloniki,Greece, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Afonso Morgado
- Department of Urology, Centro Hospitalar São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Andrey Morozov
- Institute for Urology and Reproductive Health, Sechenov University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Maarten Albersen
- Department of Urology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Giorgio Ivan Russo
- Urology section, Department of Surgery, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Ege Can Serefoglu
- Department of Urology, Biruni University, School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
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Giatti S, Diviccaro S, Cioffi L, Cosimo Melcangi R. Post-Finasteride Syndrome And Post-Ssri Sexual Dysfunction: Two Clinical Conditions Apparently Distant, But Very Close. Front Neuroendocrinol 2024; 72:101114. [PMID: 37993021 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2023.101114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Post-finasteride syndrome and post-SSRI sexual dysfunction, are two poorly explored clinical conditions in which men treated for androgenetic alopecia with finasteride or for depression with SSRI antidepressants show persistent side effects despite drug suspension (e.g., sexual dysfunction, psychological complaints, sleep disorders). Because of some similarities in the symptoms, common pathological mechanisms are proposed here. Indeed, as discussed, clinical studies and preclinical data obtained so far suggest an important role for brain modulators (i.e., neuroactive steroids), neurotransmitters (i.e., serotonin, and cathecolamines), and gut microbiota in the context of the gut-brain axis. In particular, the observed interconnections of these signals in these two clinical conditions may suggest similar etiopathogenetic mechanisms, such as the involvement of the enzyme converting norepinephrine into epinephrine (i.e., phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase). However, despite the current efforts, more work is still needed to advance the understanding of these clinical conditions in terms of diagnostic markers and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Lucia Cioffi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.
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4
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Irwig MS, Sanz J, Lin D, Tan N, Dommasch E. Beliefs and counseling practices among dermatologists regarding sexual and other adverse effects of finasteride. Int J Impot Res 2023:10.1038/s41443-023-00750-0. [PMID: 37542152 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-023-00750-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
Finasteride may cause low libido and erectile dysfunction and the product label of finasteride also includes post-marketing reactions of sexual dysfunction that continued after discontinuation of treatment, as well as male infertility and depression. The aim of this study was to evaluate the beliefs and counseling practices among dermatologists regarding adverse effects of finasteride. Anonymous paper surveys were personally distributed to 122 attendees at two annual major dermatology meetings. The participation rate was 82% with 47% women and 77% residents of the United States. 51% of respondents believed that finasteride could cause sexual side effects and 18% believed that it could cause persistent sexual side effects. Fewer than a quarter believed that finasteride could cause depression or lower sperm counts. When initiating finasteride, 69% of respondents counseled at least half of their patients about potential sexual side effects with 52% for persistent sexual side effects and 30% for depression. This study identifies the need for greater awareness of the potential adverse effects of finasteride and identifies opportunities for improvement in counseling practices that reflect finasteride's product labeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael S Irwig
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Division of Endocrinology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Jessika Sanz
- Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- New York Institute College of Osteopathic Medicine, Jonesboro, AR, USA
| | - Deborah Lin
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Nicholas Tan
- Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Erica Dommasch
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
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Paternal Finasteride Treatment Can Influence the Testicular Transcriptome Profile of Male Offspring-Preliminary Study. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2021; 43:868-886. [PMID: 34449557 PMCID: PMC8929076 DOI: 10.3390/cimb43020062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Hormone-dependent events that occur throughout spermatogenesis during postnatal testis maturation are significant for adult male fertility. Any disturbances in the T/DHT ratio in male progeny born from females fertilized by finasteride-treated male rats (F0:Fin) can result in the impairment of testicular physiology. The goal of this work was to profile the testicular transcriptome in the male filial generation (F1:Fin) from paternal F0:Fin rats. (2) Methods: The subject material for the study were testis from immature and mature male rats born from females fertilized by finasteride-treated rats. Testicular tissues from the offspring were used in microarray analyses. (3) Results: The top 10 genes having the highest and lowest fold change values were mainly those that encoded odoriferous (Olfr: 31, 331, 365, 633, 774, 814, 890, 935, 1109, 1112, 1173, 1251, 1259, 1253, 1383) and vomeronasal (Vmn1r: 50, 103, 210, 211; Vmn2r: 3, 23, 99) receptors and RIKEN cDNA 5430402E10, also known as odorant-binding protein. (4) Conclusions: Finasteride treatment of male adult rats may cause changes in the testicular transcriptome of their male offspring, leading to a defective function of spermatozoa in response to odorant-like signals, which are recently more and more often noticed as significant players in male fertility.
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Diviccaro S, Melcangi RC, Giatti S. Post-finasteride syndrome: An emerging clinical problem. Neurobiol Stress 2019; 12:100209. [PMID: 32435662 PMCID: PMC7231981 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2019.100209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2019] [Revised: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The presence of side effects during pharmacological treatment is unfortunately a quite common problem. In this review, we focused our attention on adverse events related to 5 alpha-reductase (5α-R) inhibitors (i.e., finasteride and dutasteride), approved for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia and androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Although these drugs are generally well tolerated, many reports described adverse effects in men during treatment, such as sexual dysfunction and mood alteration. In addition, it has been also reported that persistent side effects may occur in some AGA patients. This condition, termed post-finasteride syndrome (PFS) is characterized by sexual side effects (i.e., low libido, erectile dysfunction, decreased arousal and difficulty in achieving orgasm), depression, anxiety and cognitive complaints that are still present despite drug withdrawal. Indeed, some national agencies (e.g., Swedish Medical Products Agency, the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency of UK and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration) required to include multiple persistent side effects within the finasteride labels. As here reported, these observations are mainly based on self-reporting of the symptomatology by the patients and few clinical studies have been performed so far. In addition, molecular mechanisms and/or genetic determinants behind such adverse effects have been poorly explored both in patients and animal models. Therefore, results here discussed indicate that PFS is an emerging clinical problem that needs to be further elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
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Muderrisoglu AE, Becher KF, Madersbacher S, Michel MC. Cognitive and mood side effects of lower urinary tract medication. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2019; 18:915-923. [PMID: 31373245 DOI: 10.1080/14740338.2019.1652269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Muscarinic receptor antagonists, 5α-reductase inhibitors and α1-adrenoceptor antagonists are frequently used drug classes for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms including those of overactive bladder syndrome and benign prostatic enlargement/benign prostatic obstruction. Areas covered: The authors review the evidence for adverse effects of these drug classes on cognitive function, mood and other functions of the central nervous system and discuss such effects against the evidence for mechanistic plausibility. Expert opinion: Muscarinic antagonists carry a risk for impaired cognition and other brain functions that differs quantitatively between compounds, being highest with oral formulations of oxybutynin. 5□-Reductase inhibitors can cause depressive symptoms even at low doses and starting several months after discontinuation of treatment. The evidence for α1-adrenoceptor antagonists and specifically tamsulosin to cause dementia is controversial and lacks mechanistic plausibility. We recommend that physicians treating patients with lower urinary tract symptoms carefully monitor mental status prior to prescribing and periodically thereafter.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Elif Muderrisoglu
- Dept. of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Ankara University , Ankara , Turkey
| | - Klaus F Becher
- Dept. of Geriatrics and Early Rehabilitation, Helios Hanseklinikum Stralsund GmbH , Stralsund , Germany
| | - Stephan Madersbacher
- Dept. of Urology, Kaiser Franz Josef Spital, Sigmund Freud Private University , Vienna , Austria
| | - Martin C Michel
- Dept. of Pharmacology, Johannes Gutenberg University , Mainz , Germany
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Cacabelos R, Cacabelos N, Carril JC. The role of pharmacogenomics in adverse drug reactions. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2019; 12:407-442. [DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2019.1597706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ramón Cacabelos
- EuroEspes Biomedical Research Center, Institute of Medical Science and Genomic Medicine, Corunna, Spain
| | - Natalia Cacabelos
- EuroEspes Biomedical Research Center, Institute of Medical Science and Genomic Medicine, Corunna, Spain
| | - Juan C. Carril
- EuroEspes Biomedical Research Center, Institute of Medical Science and Genomic Medicine, Corunna, Spain
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Coskuner ER, Ozkan B, Culha MG. Sexual Problems of Men With Androgenic Alopecia Treated With 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors. Sex Med Rev 2018; 7:277-282. [PMID: 30301703 DOI: 10.1016/j.sxmr.2018.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Revised: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION 5-Alpha reductase inhibitors (5-ARIs) are widely used in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and androgenic alopecia (AGA). AIM To examine all available data on the effects of 5-ARIs on sexual functioning in AGA treatment and to assess whether 5-ARIs increase the risk of sexual dysfunction. METHODS A literature review of publications at PubMed related to the subject was used. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE We assessed erectile dysfunction, ejaculation impairment, and decreased libido. RESULTS 5-ARIs may cause side effects such as erectile dysfunction, ejaculation problems, and decreased libido in patients. Their long-term impact and precise mechanism have not been clarified. Data from studies on 5-ARIs are important for drug selection and patient counseling. More training and awareness is needed for clinicians and patients to recover many patients from sexual adverse effects. CONCLUSION 5-ARIs used in the treatment of AGA have well-defined side effects, which can negatively affect sexual life. It is unknown and unpredictable which men using these drugs may be subject to these side effects and when these effects may appear. Studies have been insufficient to provide a clear answer to this question. Coskuner ER, Ozkan B, Culha MG. Sexual Problems of Men With Androgenic Alopecia Treated With 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors. Sex Med Rev 2019;7:277-282.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enis Rauf Coskuner
- Department of Urology, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Burak Ozkan
- Department of Urology, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Gokhan Culha
- Department of Urology, University of Health Sciences, Okmeydani Training & Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
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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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Sorbellini E, Pinto D, Marzani B, Rinaldi F. Drug Treatment for Androgenetic Alopecia: First Italian Questionnaire Survey on What Dermatologists Think about Finasteride. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb) 2018; 8:259-267. [PMID: 29574572 PMCID: PMC6002321 DOI: 10.1007/s13555-018-0233-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Treatment with finasteride 1 mg/day represents the therapy of choice for androgenetic alopecia (AGA). We investigated how Italian dermatologists approach use of finasteride for treatment of AGA and common side effects reported by patients. METHODS A tablet-based survey was conducted from February 2017 to January 2018 in Italy to investigating use of 1 mg/day finasteride in the treatment of AGA. Approximately 1153 Italian dermatologists were surveyed about prescription frequency, therapy duration, treatment practices, and side effects eventually reported. RESULTS Dermatologists considered treatment with 1 mg/day finasteride to be the most efficacious treatment for AGA, as reflecting by its long-term (5 years) prescription. Data on sexual side effects from our survey are in line with previous scientific evidence, especially regarding loss of libido, erectile dysfunction, and problems with ejaculation, but also in the psychological sphere and regarding physical impairments such as myalgia and loss of muscle tone. CONCLUSIONS This is the first preliminary observational study on how Italian dermatologists approach use of finasteride to treat AGA. Although side effects have been reported, especially in the sexual sphere, lack of alternative treatments with the same efficacy leads dermatologists to prescribe 1 mg/day finasteride with a tendency to prolong therapy in the long term. FUNDING Giuliani S.p.A.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniela Pinto
- International Hair Research Foundation (IHRF), Milan, Italy
| | | | - Fabio Rinaldi
- International Hair Research Foundation (IHRF), Milan, Italy.
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12
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Das Post-Finasterid-Syndrom. GYNAKOLOGISCHE ENDOKRINOLOGIE 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s10304-017-0126-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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13
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Cauci S, Chiriacò G, Cecchin E, Toffoli G, Xodo S, Stinco G, Trombetta C. Androgen Receptor (AR) Gene (CAG)n and (GGN)n Length Polymorphisms and Symptoms in Young Males With Long-Lasting Adverse Effects After Finasteride Use Against Androgenic Alopecia. Sex Med 2016; 5:e61-e71. [PMID: 28024997 PMCID: PMC5302381 DOI: 10.1016/j.esxm.2016.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Revised: 10/26/2016] [Accepted: 11/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Long-term adverse symptoms of men who used oral finasteride against androgenic alopecia have been recently described as post-finasteride syndrome (PFS). Aim To determine whether (CAG)n-rs4045402 and (GGN)n-rs3138869 polymorphisms in the androgen receptor (AR) gene are implicated in PFS. Methods AR polymorphisms were studied according to PFS symptoms in 66 white participants (31.8% Italian, 28.8% American, and 39.4% other). Main Outcome Measures Symptoms were investigated by an ad hoc 100-item questionnaire and the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale and Aging Male Symptom Scale (AMS). (CAG)n and (GGN)n repeats were categorized as short ([CAG]9–19, [GGN]<23), medium ([CAG]20–24, [GGN]23), or long ([CAG]25–37, [GGN]>23). Results Median age was 32 years, duration of finasteride use was 360 days, and time from finasteride discontinuation was 1,053 days. We observed several frequency differences in symptoms according to (CAG)n and (GGN)n repeat numbers. Three AMS items were worse for medium (GGN)23 than for long (GGN)>23 carriers and one item was worse for short (GGN)<23 carriers. The AMS item for decrease in sexual desire or libido was worse for short (CAG)9–19 carriers than for medium (CAG)20–24 carriers. Through the ad hoc questionnaire, significant findings in (CAG)n and/or (GGN)n repeats were obtained for penile discomfort, loss of scrotal sensitivity, scrotal discomfort, less pubic hair, loss of perceived perineal fullness, increased sperm density, involuntary muscle spasms, loss of muscle tone, increased weight (>2 kg), increased skin dryness, and onset of symptoms after finasteride use. Conclusion This study showed that short and/or long (CAG)n and (GGN)n repeats had different frequencies according to symptoms reported by patients with PFS, likely reflecting the vast array of genes modulated by the AR. This study showed a U-curvilinear profile of (CAG)n repeats for skin dryness symptoms, where the two extremes exhibited a worse condition than medium repeats. Further studies are necessary to investigate the PFS pathophysiology using a precision medicine approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabina Cauci
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Chiriacò
- Urological Hospital Department, Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Erika Cecchin
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology Unit, CRO Aviano National Cancer Institute, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Toffoli
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology Unit, CRO Aviano National Cancer Institute, Italy
| | - Serena Xodo
- Hospital Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Santa Maria della Misericordia, Udine, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Stinco
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Udine, Dermatology Clinic, University Hospital Santa Maria della Misericordia, Udine, Italy
| | - Carlo Trombetta
- Urological Hospital Department, Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
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Fertig R, Shapiro J, Bergfeld W, Tosti A. Investigation of the Plausibility of 5-Alpha-Reductase Inhibitor Syndrome. Skin Appendage Disord 2016; 2:120-129. [PMID: 28232919 DOI: 10.1159/000450617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Postfinasteride syndrome (PFS) is a term recently coined to characterize a constellation of reported undesirable side effects described in postmarketing reports and small uncontrolled studies that developed during or after stopping finasteride treatment, and persisted after drug discontinuation. Symptoms included decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, sexual anhedonia, decreased sperm count, gynecomastia, skin changes, cognitive impairment, fatigue, anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. The aim of this study is to review the existing medical literature for evidence-based research of permanent sexual dysfunction and mood changes during treatment with 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors including finasteride and dutasteride.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond Fertig
- Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Fla, USA
| | - Jerry Shapiro
- The Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, N.Y., USA
| | - Wilma Bergfeld
- Departments of Dermatopathology Fellowship, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Departments of Pathology, Dermatopathology Fellowship, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Antonella Tosti
- Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Fla, USA
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15
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Heilmann-Heimbach S, Hochfeld LM, Paus R, Nöthen MM. Hunting the genes in male-pattern alopecia: how important are they, how close are we and what will they tell us? Exp Dermatol 2016; 25:251-7. [DOI: 10.1111/exd.12965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Heilmann-Heimbach
- Institute of Human Genetics; University of Bonn; Bonn Germany
- Department of Genomics; Life & Brain Center; University of Bonn; Bonn Germany
| | - Lara M. Hochfeld
- Institute of Human Genetics; University of Bonn; Bonn Germany
- Department of Genomics; Life & Brain Center; University of Bonn; Bonn Germany
| | - Ralf Paus
- Dermatology Research Centre; Institute of Inflammation and Repair; University of Manchester; Manchester UK
- Department of Dermatology; University of Münster; Münster Germany
| | - Markus M. Nöthen
- Institute of Human Genetics; University of Bonn; Bonn Germany
- Department of Genomics; Life & Brain Center; University of Bonn; Bonn Germany
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16
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Chiriacò G, Cauci S, Mazzon G, Trombetta C. An observational retrospective evaluation of 79 young men with long-term adverse effects after use of finasteride against androgenetic alopecia. Andrology 2016; 4:245-50. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2015] [Revised: 10/29/2015] [Accepted: 11/15/2015] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- G. Chiriacò
- Urological Hospital Department; Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences; University of Trieste; Trieste Italy
| | - S. Cauci
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences; School of Medicine; University of Udine; Udine Italy
| | - G. Mazzon
- Urological Hospital Department; Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences; University of Trieste; Trieste Italy
| | - C. Trombetta
- Urological Hospital Department; Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences; University of Trieste; Trieste Italy
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17
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Irwig MS. Safety concerns regarding 5α reductase inhibitors for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes 2015; 22:248-53. [PMID: 25871957 DOI: 10.1097/med.0000000000000158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To examine the clinical and basic studies regarding persistent adverse effects associated with 5α reductase inhibitor treatment for androgenetic alopecia. RECENT FINDINGS Recent postmarketing reports and a US Food and Drug Administration analysis have documented uncommon persistent sexual and nonsexual side-effects in a subset of younger men who have taken finasteride 1 mg for androgenic alopecia. While the mechanisms of the sexual side-effects in humans is incompletely understood, one study found lower cerebrospinal fluid concentrations of dihydrotestosterone, progesterone, dihydroprogesterone and allopregnanolone, and higher levels of testosterone, 5α-androstane-3α,17β-diol and pregnenolone. Another study found up-regulation of the androgen receptor in the human foreskin with a mean of 5 years after finasteride discontinuation. Studies of erectile dysfunction in finasteride-treated rats showed fewer autophagosomes in smooth muscle on transmission electron microscopy, increased apoptosis, decreased smooth muscle, increased collagen deposition and decreased endothelial nitric oxide synthase. Finally, 5α reductase inhibitors have also been found to alter semen parameters in healthy men. SUMMARY Multiple animal studies provide a biological basis for many of the persistent effects seen in humans such as erectile dysfunction, depression and decreased alcohol consumption. Prescribers of 5α reductase inhibitors should discuss the potential risks with their patients seeking treatment for androgenetic alopecia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael S Irwig
- Center for Andrology and Division of Endocrinology, The George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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18
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Di Loreto C, La Marra F, Mazzon G, Belgrano E, Trombetta C, Cauci S. Immunohistochemical evaluation of androgen receptor and nerve structure density in human prepuce from patients with persistent sexual side effects after finasteride use for androgenetic alopecia. PLoS One 2014; 9:e100237. [PMID: 24959691 PMCID: PMC4069023 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0100237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2014] [Accepted: 05/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Finasteride is an inhibitor of 5-α-reductase used against male androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Reported side effects of finasteride comprise sexual dysfunction including erectile dysfunction, male infertility, and loss of libido. Recently these effects were described as persistent in some subjects. Molecular events inducing persistent adverse sexual symptoms are unexplored. This study was designed as a retrospective case-control study to assess if androgen receptor (AR) and nerve density in foreskin prepuce specimens were associated with persistent sexual side effects including loss of sensitivity in the genital area due to former finasteride use against AGA. Cases were 8 males (aged 29–43 years) reporting sexual side effects including loss of penis sensitivity over 6 months after discontinuation of finasteride who were interviewed and clinically visited. After informed consent they were invited to undergo a small excision of skin from prepuce. Controls were 11 otherwise healthy matched men (aged 23–49 years) who undergone circumcision for phimosis, and who never took finasteride or analogues. Differences in AR expression and nerve density in different portions of dermal prepuce were evaluated in the 2 groups. Density of nuclear AR in stromal and epithelial cells was higher in cases (mean 40.0%, and 80.6% of positive cells, respectively) than controls (mean 23.4%, and 65.0% of positive cells, respectively), P = 0.023 and P = 0.043, respectively. Conversely, percentage of vessel smooth muscle cells positive for AR and density of nerves were similar in the 2 groups. The ratio of AR positive stromal cells % to serum testosterone concentrations was 2-fold higher in cases than in controls (P = 0.001). Our findings revealed that modulation of local AR levels might be implicated in long-term side effects of finasteride use. This provides the first evidence of a molecular objective difference between patients with long-term adverse sexual effects after finasteride use versus drug untreated healthy controls in certain tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Di Loreto
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Francesco La Marra
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Giorgio Mazzon
- Urological Hospital Department, Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Emanuele Belgrano
- Urological Hospital Department, Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Carlo Trombetta
- Urological Hospital Department, Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Sabina Cauci
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
- * E-mail:
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