A 64-year-old man arrives at the office with a 6-month history of urinating difficulties, including frequent straining and dribbling. His symptoms have worsened over time and have a significant impact on his quality of life. The doctor prescribes a medication that provides the patient with moderate symptom relief. He does, however, have a decrease in libido and impaired erectile function. Which of the following is the most likely mechanism of action of this patient's medication?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Eductional Objective: 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors (for example, finasteride) reduce testosterone conversion to dihydrotestosterone. These medications reduce prostate volume and relieve urinary flow obstruction in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia. They are, however, linked to androgen-deficiency symptoms such as decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and decreased ejaculate volume.

A 64-Year-Old Man Arrives at the Office with a 6-Month