Testosterone and dihydrotestosterone treatments can help with penile growth in males with 5α-reductasetype 2 deficiency, with dihydrotestosterone being more effective in infancy.
Beta-sitosterol may inhibit 5-alpha reductasetype 2 enzyme, potentially reducing DHT levels and promoting hair growth, similar to finasteride but possibly with fewer side effects. Its effectiveness and side effects compared to other treatments like saw palmetto and finasteride remain uncertain due to limited research.
Finasteride and dutasteride, used for hair loss, can cause sexual dysfunction, depression, and suicidal thoughts, with some effects persisting after stopping. The post stresses the importance of being aware of these risks.
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.
The user's progress after using dutasteride for hair loss treatment, and how minoxidil is also a helpful part of this process which can take up to one year to see full effects.
A user who has been taking finasteride, minoxidil, and microneedling for one year with no results, and the replies discuss other treatments, including dutasteride, which is feared due to potential side effects.