Mechanism of action
·
Dutasteride is a newer
cogener of finasteride which inhibits the conversion of testosterone to 5
alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is the androgen primarily responsible
for the initial development and subsequent enlargement of the prostate gland.
·
Testosterone is converted to DHT by the enzyme
5 alpha-reductase, which exists as 2 isoforms, type 1 and type 2. Dutasteride
is a competitive and specific inhibitor of both type 1 and type 2 5
alpha-reductase isoenzymes, with which it forms a stable enzyme complex.
Reference: Tripathi
K.D., "Essentials of medical pharmacology", Jaypee brothers medical
publishers, Seventh edition, New Delhi, page no. 303.
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