Effect of Finasteride, a 5 Alpha-Reductase Inhibitor, on Serum Gonadotropins in Normal Men

Finasteride not only inactivates the 5a reductase enzyme but also affects the 5b reductase enzyme in a dose-dependent manner, which can impact sexual behavior and brain activity. The user experienced significant hair regrowth and side effects on 1mg of finasteride, which diminished after reducing the dose to 0.5mg, leading to no side effects and further hair improvement.

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.

Finasteride significantly increased testosterone levels for the user, with no major side effects except watery semen, which was resolved with zinc supplements. The user's hairline stopped receding and slightly improved.

The conversation discusses the impact of finasteride on sperm, including potential side effects like decreased ejaculate volume and total sperm count. Users share experiences and concerns about fertility tests before and after starting finasteride.

A man stopped taking finasteride, a hair loss treatment, to improve his fertility. His sperm count and motility increased after stopping the medication, but sperm shape did not change.

A user reported a significant reduction in DHT levels after 3 months of taking 1mg/day oral finasteride, along with using minoxidil foam, microneedling, and Nutrafol vitamins. They hope this will lead to hair growth and less shedding.