Dutasteride May Reduce Heavy Drinking in Males

5-alpha reductase enzymes have an important role in the production of 5α-reduced neuroactive steroids. These molecules may affect human drinking behaviours and alcohol consumption. Authors of a new study set out to evaluate dutasteride's tolerability and efficacy for reducing drinking.

The study included 142 males with heavy drinking (defined as more than 24 drinks per week) and a goal to reduce or stop their drinking were randomized to either dutasteride 1 mg daily or placebo for 12 weeks.

Results showed that 25% of dutasteride-treated participants had no hazardous drinking (no heavy drinking days and not more than 14 drinks per week) during their last month of treatment compared with 6% of placebo-treated participants (P = 0.006; NNT = 6). Adverse events more common in the dutasteride group included reduced libido and stomach discomfort.

Conclusion:

This study positions dutasteride 1 mg was a medication to reduce heavy drinking in males. More studies are needed to understand the long term effects of dutasteride on drinking behaviours.

REFERENCE

Covault J et al. Randomized Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial of Dutasteride for Reducing Heavy Drinking in Men. J Clin Psychopharmacol. 2024 May-Jun;44(3):223-231. doi: 10.1097/JCP.0000000000001849.