Has Anyone Lost Morning Erections Due to Finasteride & Got Them Back?

Chat 3/17/2025

The release of a study on 5a-reductase inhibitors (finasteride and dutasteride) which showed an increased risk of depression, dementia, decreased libido, and reduced semen load as potential side effects; discussion around other forms of hair loss treatments such as topical minoxidil, RU58841, or opting to accept baldness; and advice to consider professional help for deeper issues related to hair loss.

Topical dutasteride is considered for hair loss, but concerns about systemic absorption and side effects like reduced libido are common. Users have mixed results, with some preferring oral finasteride or dutasteride despite side effects, while others find topical treatments beneficial but challenging.

Topical finasteride with minoxidil effectively stabilized and thickened hair but caused side effects like brain fog, reduced libido, and emotional flattening, leading to discontinuation. The user switched to a new regimen including minoxidil, KX-826, and other treatments, noting improvements in libido and vivid dreams after stopping finasteride.

The conversation discusses the impact of finasteride on sexual function, with many users reporting reduced libido and weaker erections despite continuing the treatment to prevent hair loss. Some users suggest checking hormone levels or switching to different dosages or treatments like dutasteride, while others share mixed experiences regarding the severity of side effects.

DHT is important for sexual function and mood, but finasteride and dutasteride can reduce DHT, causing side effects like reduced libido and erectile dysfunction. These treatments are effective for hair loss, but their impact on DHT leads to debate.