Dutasteride at 0.5mg may have fewer sexual side effects than expected, with many side effects attributed to psychological factors (nocebo effect). The placebo group experienced more side effects, suggesting fear and anxiety might contribute to perceived side effects.
Access to minoxidil and finasteride in prison is unlikely unless prescribed for medical conditions like hypertension or benign prostatic hyperplasia. Cosmetic treatments are generally not provided in prison.
Saw palmetto, a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, caused unexpected side effects like breast changes and altered semen consistency, which resolved after stopping its use. Concerns about similar side effects with finasteride or dutasteride were expressed, and another user reported low libido and depression from saw palmetto.