A user's 18-month hairline progress using minoxidil, finasteride, Nizoral, microneedling, and scalp massage. They share their routine and discuss treatment effectiveness and photo order confusion.
The conversation discusses a personal theory on the role of DHT in stress and reproduction, suggesting it converts testosterone for reproductive traits. The discussion includes skepticism and mentions individual differences in physiology and neurochemistry.
Clascoterone (CB) shows an excellent safety profile with no serious side effects, but its effectiveness may decline after six months, making it more suitable as an adjunct treatment with finasteride and minoxidil rather than a standalone solution. Some argue it could be better than finasteride due to its protection against testosterone, but its long-term efficacy remains debated.
Switching from topical to oral minoxidil due to scalp irritation and unsatisfactory results, while also seeking cheaper options in the U.S. Oral minoxidil is generally favored for its effectiveness and fewer application downsides, with CostPlusDrugs and GoodRx offering affordable prices.
Results for PP405 are expected next year, with concerns about its pricing and potential black market availability. Some users believe it may be slightly more effective than finasteride and dutasteride, and combining it with treatments like minoxidil and microneedling could be beneficial.
Dutasteride's half-life varies with dosage, and lower doses can be effective with fewer side effects compared to finasteride. Some users report different side effects with dutasteride and finasteride, and extreme dosages of dutasteride are unnecessary and potentially harmful.
Finasteride can reduce DHT in the genitalia, potentially causing side effects like reduced erections and penile fibrosis. Using PDE5 inhibitors like Tadalafil or Sildenafil may help maintain penile health and prevent fibrosis.
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.
The conversation discusses how the absorption rate of topical finasteride varies and is not equivalent to its oral form, with only a small percentage reaching the scalp. It also mentions that minoxidil in high concentrations is used topically because only a small amount is absorbed.
The conversation discusses using a microneedling device on the face after using it on the scalp, with suggestions to use a depth of 0.2mm for facial treatments. Caution and proper sterilization are advised due to the sensitivity of facial skin.
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 in Egypt is seeking alternatives to oral minoxidil, which is banned there, after stopping topical minoxidil due to concerns for their cat's safety. Suggestions include drinking diluted topical minoxidil or making homemade minoxidil tablets, but these methods carry significant risks and are not recommended.
PP405 is suspected to be a scam, with users doubting its legitimacy and effectiveness. Many recommend using proven treatments like finasteride and minoxidil.
Dutasteride and finasteride can cause changes in physical appearance, like more feminine features and increased water retention. Users report side effects such as reduced libido, weight gain, and improved skin clarity, while some notice no significant changes.
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 in Turkey was advised by a dermatologist to avoid finasteride due to its hormonal effects and was prescribed minoxidil, shampoo, and vitamins instead. The user is considering seeking another doctor's opinion or buying finasteride directly from a pharmacy.
Some users of RU-58841 report cardiovascular symptoms like heart palpitations and chest tightness, which may be linked to its metabolites causing lung disease. The safety of RU-58841 is uncertain due to lack of long-term data and concerns about product purity, especially from gray market sources.
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.
Pyrilutamide Phase 3 approved, starting early 2022 with 416 subjects for 24 weeks. Drug potentially better than RU and Breezula, with some users reporting no side effects.
The conversation discusses arranging an interview with the developers of RU58841 to clarify its safety and reasons for halted research, with some users expressing concerns about potential risks and others citing financial reasons for the discontinuation of studies. Specific treatments mentioned include RU58841, minoxidil, and finasteride.
A user is concerned about starting finasteride due to negative reports and potential side effects. Other users suggest talking to a doctor, considering personal tolerance, and note that side effects are rare.
PP405 is expected to be on the market between 2027 and 2030, with phase 3 trials starting in 2026. There is skepticism about its fast-tracking due to its cosmetic nature, and it may appear on the gray market sooner.
PP405 is seen as a potential breakthrough for converting vellus hairs to terminal hairs, with users expressing both hope and skepticism. It is compared to treatments like minoxidil and finasteride, with discussions on side effects and marketing concerns.
Users discuss aggressive promotion of Koshine 826, suspecting Kintor employees are behind it. Concerns are raised about its effectiveness, with some preferring alternatives like finasteride and minoxidil.
The conversation discusses the potential long-term effects of stopping finasteride after extended use, with differing opinions on the existence and prevalence of post-finasteride syndrome (PFS). Some users report persistent side effects, while others argue that such effects are rare or unrelated to the medication.
Finasteride can cause side effects like erectile dysfunction and decreased libido, possibly due to increased estradiol from testosterone aromatization, especially in those with higher body fat. Side effects vary widely and may also be influenced by genetic factors or neurosteroid inhibition.
Minoxidil may cause wrinkles and dark circles, which some users report can be mitigated by adjusting dosage. Reactions vary, and while some dismiss these side effects, others experience significant changes.
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.
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.