In a nutshell
This study examined the effect of 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (5ARIs) on sexual function. In an analysis of many studies, researchers reported an increased risk of sexual side effects in men receiving 5ARIs for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Some background
Drugs that are commonly prescribed for treating urinary symptoms in BPH include 5ARIs such as dutasteride (Avodart) and finasteride (Propecia). 5ARIs affect the levels of male hormones in the prostate. This is believed to reduce the size of the prostate and increase the flow of urine. In some men, the change in male hormones can increase the risk of sexual and erectile dysfunction. However, more high-quality evidence is needed to examine the link between 5ARIs and sexual side effects.
Methods & findings
The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of 5ARIs on sexual function.
17 separate studies involving 17,494 patients were analyzed. Of these, 9 studies examined the effect of 5ARIs in men with BPH. The other 8 studies reported the effect of 5ARIs in men with male-pattern baldness. The studies included compared the effect of 5ARIs to placebo (a control drug with no active effect). 10 studies examined the effect of finasteride, 4 studies examined dutasteride, and 3 studies examined a combination of both.
5ARIs increased the risk of overall sexual dysfunction 2.56-fold for men with BPH compared to placebo. The risk of erectile dysfunction was increased by 55% for men with BPH taking 5ARIs. A reduced sex drive was 69% more likely in men with BPH receiving 5ARIs compared to men receiving placebo.
Overall, dutasteride increased the risk of sexual side effects 4.09-fold in men with BPH. This was significantly greater than finasteride for BPH, which increased the risk of sexual side effects by 54%. Treatment with 5ARIs for BPH lasting longer than 1 year further increased the risk of sexual dysfunction.
The bottom line
Researchers concluded that 5ARIs significantly increase the risk of sexual dysfunction in men with BPH.
Published By :
The journal of sexual medicine
Date :
Jul 27, 2016
