Allopregnanolone (ALLO) modulates GABAA_AA receptors and influences ethanol (EtOH) withdrawal. This study examined sex- and strain-dependent effects of finasteride, an ALLO synthesis inhibitor, on acute EtOH withdrawal while minimizing metabolic interactions. Male and female C57BL/6J and DBA/2J mice received finasteride or vehicle prior to acute EtOH exposure, and withdrawal severity was assessed using handling-induced convulsions. Finasteride increased withdrawal severity in females but decreased severity in males, without altering EtOH pharmacokinetics or hormone levels. These findings suggest sex-specific sensitivity to neurosteroid modulation during acute EtOH withdrawal.
