TRADE-Testosterone Replacement and Dutasteride Effectiveness

The primary aim of this study is to determine whether correction of hypogonadism using a combination of testosterone and dutasteride spares subjects from increases in prostate size and symptoms of BPH which may be associated with T alone. We will also determine the effects of changes in serum T and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on both the hormonal milieu and genetic program within the prostate gland itself. The technology employed will allow us to determine which genes are androgen responsive within each prostate tissue compartment. Together, these data may determine whether the combination of testosterone and dutasteride safely corrects the symptoms of BPH and hypogonadism and minimizes growth stimulus to the prostate at the genetic level. We will also assess the effects of the combination of T and dutasteride on cognitive function. This is a six-month, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, single-site study of older hypogonadal men with mild to moderate BPH. Within each treatment group, a sub-group of subjects will undergo additional procedures as part of a Prostate Biopsy sub-study to obtain prostate tissue for hormonal and genetic analyses. Selection of subjects will be based on clinical indication and/or willingness to undergo prostate biopsies.