Low-Dose Finasteride in Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A Comprehensive Narrative Review of Efficacy, Safety, and Preventative Potential

This review explores the use of finasteride 1 mg, typically used for androgenic alopecia, in the context of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). While finasteride 1 mg shows measurable suppression of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and prostate-specific antigen (PSA), there is a lack of direct evidence supporting its clinical benefits for reducing prostate volume, improving lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), or preventing disease progression. These outcomes are well-supported by studies on finasteride 5 mg. The review suggests that finasteride 1 mg could be considered for early or preventive use in younger men, but emphasizes the need for large randomized controlled trials to confirm any potential clinical benefits.