Steroid 5alpha-reductase inhibitors in androgen-dependent disorders

Abstract

Inhibition of the steroid 5alpha-reductases shows promise in the treatment of a number of androgen-dependent disorders, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia, male pattern baldness, and acne. The design of potent and isozyme-selective inhibitors has provided biologists and clinicians with important tools for elucidating complex androgen physiology, and has already resulted in the development of one marketed drug.