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.
Clascoterone is suggested as an alternative for those who experience side effects from finasteride and dutasteride. It is not widely available yet, but some users are obtaining it from compounding pharmacies or suppliers like Echemi.
Women experienced severe reactions, including Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW), from using Winlevi (Clascoterone 1%) on their faces. Concerns were raised about the potential risks of higher concentrations, especially for hair loss treatment.
User experienced feminizing side effects from finasteride and tried RU, alfatradiol, and finasteride without success. They are now considering treatments like Stemoxydine, Zix, Minoxidil, Dermarolling, Eucapil, and a hair transplant.
The user is experiencing irritation from using PG with RU58841 and is seeking alternative solutions like K&B in the UK. They report redness, itchiness, and flaky skin from the current treatment.
The conversation discusses the absorption and effectiveness of PG-free versus PG versions of RU58841, with some users believing PG improves efficacy while others see no difference. Concerns about RU58841's potential side effects on the endocrine system are also mentioned, with one user considering switching to pyrilutamide.
The efficacy of degrading the androgen receptor through dermal application in DP cells, a delivery system for topical drugs that involves dissolving microneedles, and rosemary oil as an alternative anti-androgen.
Finasteride and dutasteride may not significantly impact meibomian gland function since these glands do not rely on DHT. Some users report dry eyes and other side effects from finasteride, but these may be influenced by other factors or medications.
The user experienced significant hair regrowth using Trestolone, GHK-Cu, and Minoxidil. They avoided Finasteride due to concerns about side effects and noted that their approach reduced androgenic load, contributing to hair regrowth.
The conversation discusses managing gynecomastia symptoms potentially caused by finasteride use, with treatments including reducing finasteride dosage, using DIM, ashwagandha, tamoxifen, epistane, and arimistane. Users share experiences and advice on balancing testosterone and estrogen levels to address symptoms.
The conversation is about gathering serum DHT data from individuals taking dutasteride to investigate its efficacy, especially in cases with unexpectedly low DHT reduction. The aim is to explore potential genetic factors affecting drug metabolism.
Post Finasteride Syndrome (PFS) may result from epigenetic changes and gut microbiota alterations. Supplementing with Allopregnanolone might protect against these adverse effects.
Switching to a DIY topical finasteride solution using ethanol, glycerin, and distilled water instead of propylene glycol for a gentler application. Users report positive results with both DIY solutions and a low PG minoxidil and finasteride product from India.
The user has been taking 0.5 finasteride for 10 months and wants to repeat blood tests, including estradiol. However, their doctor is reluctant to test estradiol, arguing it's typically low in men, and the user is considering seeking a second opinion.
A user is considering using 70% isopropyl alcohol with glycerin as a carrier for topical finasteride for hair loss but is concerned about its safety compared to ethanol. They are unsure where to buy ethanol without toxic methanol.
The conversation discusses the use of ethanol and propylene glycol (PG) in topical solutions for hair loss treatments, specifically Minoxidil. The user dislikes the texture of PG and questions the ideal ratio and necessity of PG in these solutions.
The user is concerned about high DHT levels despite using finasteride and dutasteride for hair loss, suggesting these treatments may not be effective. They plan to consult an endocrinologist and consider other antiandrogens, acknowledging potential side effects.
A user with low testosterone and mild gyno is considering finasteride for hair loss. Others suggest consulting an endocrinologist first and share experiences of finasteride not worsening gyno.
A user with diffuse hair loss after taking accutane, which might have triggered genetic predisposition to AGA; their experience taking finasteride and experiencing side effects of increased oil production, increased sex drive, worsening hair texture; they are considering zinc supplementation with finasteride or other treatments such as alfatradiol or spironolactone.
The conversation is about managing allopregnanolone deficiency caused by 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors like finasteride or dutasteride. Specific treatments discussed for hair loss include Minoxidil, finasteride, and RU58841.
The user is concerned about high LH and estradiol levels after using finasteride but reports no side effects. They are seeking advice on whether these levels are concerning despite feeling fine.
User experienced gynecomastia from finasteride and found a solution using liposomal topical finasteride. This method minimizes side effects and is effective for hair loss treatment.
The conversation is about using alfatradiol (17α-estradiol) as a hair loss treatment. The user is considering adding it to their regimen due to its safety and availability.
The conversation discusses using aromatase inhibiting supplements like DIM and Grape Seed extract while on finasteride for hair loss treatment. Users share their experiences and opinions on combining these supplements with finasteride.
A user with high pre-finasteride estrogen levels is asking if they need to normalize their hormone levels before starting finasteride and whether they should postpone dermarolling until they begin finasteride. The user is 21.5 years old.
The conversation discusses the use of 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors like finasteride and dutasteride for hair loss in transgender women, particularly in relation to testosterone suppression. The original poster has been using dutasteride and is considering stopping it due to undetectable testosterone levels.
Female (37) experiencing hair loss for 5 years, tried max dose of spiro and oral + topical minox without success. Discovered low cortisol and low DHEA levels, seeking functional medicine practitioner for help.
Finasteride significantly lowers allopregnanolone levels, while dutasteride's effect is less clear and may vary. Some users speculate that dutasteride might be healthier for the brain due to its different inhibition pathways.
A 22-year-old is experiencing hair loss after transitioning from fem HRT to DIY testosterone therapy and is considering using Dutasteride while also taking Saw Palmetto. They are concerned about the impact on virilization and proper development.