A user experienced decreased free testosterone levels after three months of using finasteride, despite positive results in hair shedding reduction. They are considering switching to topical finasteride and plan to conduct further blood tests, including checking SHBG levels, to understand the hormonal changes.
The user reported high estradiol levels after one month of using finasteride for hair loss. They discussed potential side effects and adjustments to their treatment plan.
The conversation discusses whether to get a blood test to check DHT levels while using Dutasteride for hair loss and concerns about Quercetin's potential interaction with Dutasteride. It concludes that testing DHT isn't necessary unless no effects are seen, and the small amount of Quercetin in a multivitamin likely doesn't interfere with treatment.
A user successfully managed finasteride-induced gyno symptoms by making lifestyle changes, including fasting, avoiding soy, and increasing cardio. They resumed finasteride with a lower dose combined with minoxidil and P7 vitamins without recurrence of symptoms.
The user stopped using finasteride after two weeks due to gynecomastia symptoms and shared blood work results questioning if they indicate a cause for the side effects. The user is considering restarting finasteride and seeking advice on their blood work levels in relation to gynecomastia.
Despite using 5% minoxidil, 0.1% finasteride, and other treatments like microneedling, MK-677, and Cialis, hair loss continues with high testosterone and DHT levels. Considering oral dutasteride but concerned about further increasing testosterone levels.
27F with androgenic alopecia since 17 seeks treatment. Tried spironolactone, caused low blood pressure; believes finasteride is safer and wants to try it.
The conversation provides a guide on using finasteride for hair loss, suggesting to start with a quarter of a 1mg pill daily after ensuring estradiol levels are within a specific range, and potentially increasing the dose if no side effects occur. It also recommends supplements like DIM, Calcium d-glucarate, and Zinc to manage high estradiol levels and side effects from finasteride.
HMI 115 did not work as expected for hair regrowth in humans, unlike in macaque monkeys. There is anticipation for further research on prolactin's role in hair loss, with expectations that pharmaceutical companies will likely solve this before universities.
Finasteride may affect liver function and cortisol levels, potentially linking it to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). More research is needed to understand this connection fully.
A user is making their own dutasteride solution using MCT oil but is concerned about its effectiveness and bioavailability. They are considering using propylene glycol or adding ethanol for better results, while others suggest the current dosage might be excessive.
The user had high DHT levels after 8 months on dutasteride, questioning the drug's authenticity. They got dutasteride from a legitimate source and will update on progress.
Experimenting with the effects of creatine and finasteride on DHT levels, as well as a discussion regarding the potential link between creatine supplementation and hair loss.
The "DHT itch" is real and likely due to inflammation at the hair follicle, exacerbated by increased testosterone or androgens. Treatments mentioned include dutasteride, minoxidil, finasteride, and various topical solutions.
Reducing sebum can indirectly lower DHT levels, with treatments like accutane, tretinoin, and green tea extract acting as DHT blockers. Accutane can lower DHT levels by reducing 5α-reductase activity, but its impact on hair varies.
Some people have low sulfotransferase enzyme levels, affecting their response to minoxidil. Lifestyle factors, genetics, and diet, like MSM intake, might influence these enzyme levels.
Creatine supplementation may increase DHT levels, potentially affecting hair loss. A study is examining this effect, with participants taking 5 grams of creatine daily for six months.
The conversation discusses preventing hair loss during detransitioning, with suggestions to use finasteride or dutasteride as DHT blockers. The user is also considering rosemary oil and monitoring testosterone levels.
A user experienced accelerated hairline recession after adding dutasteride to their regimen of topical finasteride and minoxidil, despite reduced hair shedding. They were informed that ELISA testing for DHT levels can be highly inaccurate.
Clascoterone 5% topical solution shows promise for treating male-pattern hair loss by blocking DHT at the follicle without systemic absorption, potentially offering fewer side effects than oral treatments like finasteride. While results are promising, long-term safety and effectiveness need further study, and it may serve as a starting point for developing more effective treatments.
Hope Medicine's announcement of the HMI-115 Phase II clinical trial for androgenetic alopecia in China; other related trials have been conducted or are ongoing in different countries, including Australia, US, and Europe. There is speculation that the product may be accepted across borders without additional testing.
The conversation discusses natural ways to reduce cortisol, such as avoiding caffeine, getting proper sleep, syncing with the sun, walking in nature, breathing exercises, increasing calories, and not doing keto. Magnesium supplements are recommended for stress reduction.
Finasteride and dutasteride may increase estrogen levels, leading to water retention and a fuller face. Users discuss managing these effects with lifestyle changes and supplements like zinc and DIM.
Finasteride is unlikely to cause a drop in testosterone; it typically increases it by preventing conversion to DHT. The testosterone level drop is likely due to timing of injections or other factors, not finasteride.