Inhibition of Steroid 5 Alpha-Reductase with Finasteride: Sleep-Related Erections, Potency, and Libido in Healthy 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.

Finasteride can cause sleep disturbances, but these often improve over time. Some users experience side effects like reduced libido and brain fog, while others see hair regrowth and manage side effects by adjusting dosage or switching to topical treatments.

The conversation discusses the effects of finasteride on libido, with the original poster experiencing a significant decrease in sexual desire after starting the medication. Other users share similar experiences and suggest potential remedies, including Vitamin E supplementation and lifestyle changes like avoiding pornography.

Finasteride can reduce DHT in the genitalia, potentially causing side effects like reduced erections and penile fibrosis. Using PDE5 inhibitors like Tadalafil or Sildenafil may help maintain penile health and prevent fibrosis.

Finasteride can cause side effects like erectile dysfunction and decreased libido, possibly due to increased estradiol from testosterone aromatization, especially in those with higher body fat. Side effects vary widely and may also be influenced by genetic factors or neurosteroid inhibition.

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.