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.
The post argues that Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS) is likely not real and suggests symptoms may be due to mental health issues or the nocebo effect. The conversation includes personal experiences with finasteride, highlighting both positive and negative effects, and emphasizes consulting doctors and using reliable sources for medication.
The conversation discusses the side effects of finasteride, including low libido and erectile dysfunction, and the possibility of these effects being permanent, known as post-finasteride syndrome (PFS). Some users report personal experiences with PFS and debate whether the condition is real, with varying opinions on the reversibility of side effects and the role of individual biology.
Balding is challenging, and relying on medications like finasteride is often seen as a better option than constantly shaving or trying to compensate in other areas. Many feel that societal expectations to "own it" or drastically change oneself to cope with baldness are unrealistic and burdensome.
Finasteride may seem less effective over time due to increased DHT sensitivity or aging, but it still suppresses DHT. Switching to dutasteride offers stronger DHT suppression but may increase estrogen levels.
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.
Cialis is used to manage erectile dysfunction caused by finasteride and dutasteride, with mixed results. Some users report improvement, while others consider stopping the medication due to side effects.
Some people have side effects from finasteride and dutasteride due to hormonal predisposition, especially if DHT dominant. Alternatives like RU58841, Pyrilutamide, and Breezula are suggested to target scalp androgen receptors without altering overall hormones.
Dutasteride is considered safe for conception, with semen concentrations being too low to cause harm. Users discuss switching between dutasteride and finasteride, with some experiencing side effects like acne and heart issues, and advice is given to maintain a consistent treatment regimen.
Finasteride may cause elevated liver enzymes, potentially leading to liver issues, though this is rare. Users should monitor liver function and consider topical alternatives if liver sensitivity occurs.
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.
Kintor Pharmaceutical's Phase 2 results with the drug Pyrilutamide, a potential alternative to 5-ARI drugs like Finasteride and Dutasteride but without the side effects. It could be used in combination with other topical treatments such as Minoxidil. The safety of the drug has been demonstrated in 6 months of use, however there are still questions about long term efficacy and systemic absorption.
Finasteride and Dutasteride do not cause depression or "Post Finasteride Syndrome," with concerns often linked to the nocebo effect and preexisting mental health issues. The EU is unlikely to ban these drugs, but access may become more restricted due to ongoing debates.
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.
The user lost gym motivation after taking finasteride for four months, possibly due to its effect on DHT levels. Suggestions include adjusting dosage, trying topical treatments, using caffeine, checking testosterone levels, and considering supplements like SSRIs or pregnenolone.
The conversation is about a finding that finasteride does not significantly increase the risk of sexual dysfunction, with users sharing mixed personal experiences regarding side effects.
Hair loss may be linked to thyroid issues, with some individuals noticing changes in hair texture when taking substances affecting the thyroid. Treatments mentioned include a topical mix of finasteride, minoxidil, and tretinoin, along with microneedling.
Minoxidil can cause significant hair shedding, especially for those who don't need it, and should be used cautiously under medical advice. Natural remedies like onion, rosemary oil, aloe vera, coconut oil, and a healthy lifestyle can help recover from minoxidil-relatedhair loss.
The conversation discusses hair loss linked to BDNF-increasing nootropics like Semax and Lions Mane. Suggested topical treatments include capsaicin, beta-glucan, and ginseng to counteract TGF-B activation.
A user with PCOS experienced hair loss and found success using a triple dose of O.N.E Omega by Pure Encapsulations after discovering low Omega fatty acids. Biotin provided minimal improvement, but the Omega supplement significantly restored hair.
Astaxanthin (ASX) is highlighted as a promising supplement for treating hair loss due to its antioxidant properties. It may help with inflammation and oxidative stress, which are linked to hair loss and aging.
Hair looks thinner in sunlight, and users discuss using hair fibers, minoxidil, finasteride, and considering dutasteride for hair loss. Hair fibers like Toppik help conceal thinning, and some users suggest additional treatments like derma stamping and micro-needling.
Finasteride is commonly used for hair loss, with mixed experiences regarding sexual side effects. Some users report no issues, while others experience difficulties, but many find increased confidence and libido.
OP shares their experience with PCOS-relatedhair loss, highlighting that addressing vitamin D and ferritin deficiencies, managing hormones with spironolactone, and using gentle hair care products helped improve their condition. They advise against relying on "miracle" hair oils and emphasize the importance of medical evaluation and a combined approach to treatment.
A user shared progress pictures showing improvement in PCOS-relatedhair loss after six months of using topical minoxidil, dermarolling 0.5mm weekly, and taking biotin gummies. They expressed happiness about the appearance of new baby hairs.
19-year-old experiencing hair loss seeks advice on treatments. Suggestions include Finasteride, Minoxidil, microneedling, hair systems, and consulting a dermatologist.
Stem cell-related treatments and drugs like RCGD423 and WAY are being tested for hair growth. Clinics are conducting tests on patients who haven't had previous treatments.
A user found that antihistamines stop their hair loss and related symptoms, but they experience side effects like sedation and chest pain. They are seeking alternative solutions or topical antihistamines to avoid systemic side effects.
The user discusses using Minoxidil and Finasteride for hair loss and plans to counteract potential facial aging from Minoxidil with tretinoin, a jade roller, dandelion root extract, and careful water and sodium intake. They also consider switching to topical Minoxidil and using supplements to enhance treatment response.