Finasteride may take over a year to show results, and shedding is common initially. Some users consider switching to dutasteride if finasteride doesn't reduce shedding after several months.
Dutasteride and finasteride can affect libido differently, with some experiencing increased libido and others decreased libido or erectile dysfunction. Dutasteride may increase testosterone levels but can also cause side effects like liver enzyme changes, while topical finasteride may have fewer sexual side effects.
Balding seems to worsen with each generation, possibly due to stress, diet, and environmental factors. The user started treatments like Minoxidil and finasteride.
A study that outlines the full model for androgenic alopecia (AGA) which links DHT to cellular senescence in dermal papilla cells, and suggests black chokeberry as a source of cyanidin 3-O-arabinoside polyphenol with potential anti-oxidant properties that could reverse this process. The post encourages reaching out to experts in anti-aging and longevity to research treatments involving the polyphenol.
A user shared progress pictures after using 1mg Finasteride daily, 5% Minoxidil twice daily, Nizoral Shampoo, and weekly microneedling at 1.5mm depth for two months, reporting no side effects and discussing their routine and supplements. Commenters reacted positively, with one advising caution with creatine and another endorsing the benefits of microneedling.
The user has been using finasteride for 7 months, minoxidil for 10 months, and dutasteride for 4 months with minimal results and is considering stopping treatment. Replies suggest continuing treatment, adding microneedling, and checking DHT levels.
Long term Finasteride users and whether or not they have noticed improvements after two years of use, with other treatments such as Minoxidil and dermarolling also discussed. Some replies suggest that improvement is possible even beyond the two year mark while others caution against believing studies backed by the Post-Finasteride Foundation.
The relative strength of Pyrilutamide compared to RU58841 in terms of androgen receptor binding affinity. It has been noted that Pyrilutamide is 4x stronger than RU58841, with a higher binding affinity than DHT itself.
A user shared their one-year progress using Dutasteride, oral and topical Minoxidil, RU58841, and microneedling tools from Amazon, and credits learning from top posters on the forum. Other users discuss the effectiveness of the treatments, affordability, and reflect on the benefits of starting treatment early.
Finasteride is preferred over dutasteride due to its longer history, more research, and FDA approval, despite dutasteride being more potent. Users report varied side effects, influencing personal treatment choices.
Regrowing hairline without the use of Minoxidil or Finasteride, and instead using mechanical stimulation such as Derma Roller, Nizoral, Zinc Pyrithione, Scalp Massage, Scalp Exercise, Fish Oil and other topical solutions. It is cautioned that there are risks associated with not using medically-prescribed treatments, but it is suggested to consider mechanical stimulation in addition to those prescribed treatments.
Concerns about a potential finasteride ban in the EU, possibly affecting the US, are discussed. Users doubt a ban, citing its widespread use and suggest alternatives like minoxidil and dutasteride.
A user experienced initial side effects from finasteride, including erectile dysfunction and emotional changes, but later noticed increased muscle mass and assertiveness. Hormonal tests showed elevated estrogen and prolactin levels, which slightly decreased over time; the user plans lifestyle changes to see if they help.
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.
Dutasteride takes 1-3 months to affect scalp DHT levels, not just a week. The prostate absorbs Dutasteride faster than the scalp due to different vascular networks and enzyme densities.
A user shared progress pictures after one month on oral dutasteride and minoxidil, noting some improvement despite initial shedding. They previously used finasteride for a year without noticeable change and emphasized the importance of photo comparisons.
The user "StrummerBummer" has been taking finasteride for 25 years without side effects, but is now switching to dutasteride. Other users congratulate and support the decision.
Concerns about the long-term effects of dutasteride and finasteride on fertility, with discussions on cycling these medications to mitigate risks. The conversation highlights skepticism about study methodologies and the importance of weighing treatment risks against potential fertility issues.
A user shared their positive experience of embracing baldness after years of trying treatments like Minoxidil and finasteride. They found happiness and confidence by shaving their head, despite some social challenges, and encouraged others to focus on their attitude and seek therapy if needed.
User spent 23 years on Finasteride with side effects like weight gain and reduced libido. Switched to topical Finasteride, side effects reduced and waiting for results.
A user shared their progress using 1.25g finasteride daily for 3 years and 5g oral minoxidil for 10 months, reporting positive results. They seek advice on further improving their hairline, with no significant side effects mentioned.
A user experienced hairline improvement after four weeks on 1.5mg dutasteride but had side effects like reduced libido and sensitive nipples. They plan to switch to finasteride to manage these side effects.
Finasteride may take over two years to show results and can cause side effects like sexual dysfunction and emotional changes. Alternatives such as dutasteride and minoxidil are discussed, with varying effectiveness and side effects.
User doubts oral minoxidil's effectiveness after a month of use and shedding. Few people provide photo evidence of success, and some combine it with other treatments, making it hard to determine its effectiveness alone.
Oral minoxidil can cause rare facial bloating, especially at higher doses and in women. Reducing sodium intake, drinking more water, and adjusting the dose can help manage side effects.
A user shared their one-year progress using finasteride 1mg three times a week, starting at age 25, with noticeable regrowth after three months and no side effects. Other users discussed their experiences with finasteride, minoxidil, microneedling, and dutasteride, noting varying results and side effects.
A 30-year-old female with PCOS and male pattern baldness is frustrated with her endocrinologist's recommendation of only Spironolactone and minoxidil, feeling that dutasteride, finasteride, and progesterone would be more effective. Other users suggest various online sources for treatments, warn against self-medicating due to potential risks, and recommend seeking a specialized endocrinologist or considering additional treatments like Inositol, Berberine, and dermaneedling.
Finasteride may pose a risk during pregnancy, so using a condom is recommended if a partner is pregnant. It is advised to stop finasteride before trying to conceive due to potential effects on fetal development.
Dutasteride and finasteride can cause watery ejaculate, which may persist for some users. Zinc supplements or switching to topical treatments are suggested to alleviate this side effect.
Hair regrowth from treatments like finasteride, dutasteride, and minoxidil can take several years, with most visible results appearing within 1-2 years and potential improvements continuing up to 10 years. Consistency and patience are crucial for achieving maximum hair thickness, as hair miniaturization and regrowth are gradual processes.