The drug finasteride is widely known for treating hair loss and enlarged prostates, but recent research suggests that it may also have benefits for reducing the risk of heart disease. This article delves into a study conducted by researchers from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the University of Maryland, examining the link between finasteride and heart health.
The study utilized data from both male humans and mice to investigate the effects of finasteride on health outcomes. Cholesterol levels, a significant factor in heart disease risk, were found to be reduced in individuals taking the drug. This reduction in cholesterol is crucial, as high levels of cholesterol can lead to atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by fatty deposits in blood vessels that can block blood flow and result in strokes or heart attacks.
The research team focused on 155 male adults aged 50 or older and found a correlation between the use of finasteride and lower cholesterol levels. While the sample size was relatively small and lacked information on the duration of drug use, the results provided an intriguing suggestion of the potential heart benefits of finasteride. According to food scientist Jaume Amengual, men taking finasteride in the survey had cholesterol levels on average 30 points lower than those not taking the drug.
In addition to human data, the researchers conducted experiments on mice genetically predisposed to atherosclerosis. The mice were divided into groups receiving varying doses of finasteride, with some also subjected to a high-calorie diet. Despite the poor diet quality, mice receiving the highest dose of finasteride showed reductions in cholesterol levels in both plasma and arteries, as well as improvements in lipid profiles and inflammatory markers in the liver.
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It is worth noting that the mice were given higher doses of finasteride relative to their size than what is typically prescribed to humans. However, the consistency of results across both mice and human subjects is encouraging. Future research aims to explore cholesterol levels in more diverse groups of individuals taking finasteride, potentially through clinical trials. The fact that finasteride is already an approved drug may expedite the process of further investigation.
Notably, the study highlights the potential benefits of finasteride for transgender individuals undergoing hormonal transitions. Hair loss can be a common concern during such transitions, and finasteride may help alleviate this issue. Moreover, transgender individuals are at a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases, making the possible heart benefits of finasteride particularly relevant in this population.
The research on finasteride’s effects on heart health represents a promising avenue for further exploration. By shedding light on the drug’s potential to reduce cholesterol levels and improve overall cardiovascular health, this study paves the way for new approaches to heart disease prevention and treatment.
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