A user stopped finasteride after 15 years due to severe side effects, which improved after quitting. They maintained most of their hair and are considering alternatives like topical treatments or RU58841.
Finasteride may affect neurosteroids, impacting mood and sexual function, with varied user experiences. Some report side effects like depression and sexual dysfunction, while others find it effective for hair retention or prefer alternatives like Dutasteride or topical treatments.
The user, Lofi-luu, shared their transformation from balding to having a full head of hair after getting a hair transplant and using finasteride for almost 2 years. They also discussed their workout routine and emphasized the importance of not letting balding hold them back in life.
User shared 5.5-month progress using 0.5mg finasteride, 5% minoxidil, 1.5mm microneedling weekly, and 20mg RU58841, with positive results and no side effects. Others discussed their experiences, dosage adjustments, and the importance of age in treatment efficacy.
Derma rollers may cause scarring alopecia, leading some to prefer dermastamps or dermapens for microneedling. Combining minoxidil with microneedling is effective, but proper technique and healing time are essential to prevent damage.
The FDA warned that topical finasteride can cause serious side effects like sexual dysfunction and brain fog, similar to oral finasteride. Compounded topical formulations pose additional risks due to lack of regulation.
The conversation discusses concerns about potential cognitive and emotional effects of finasteride, with the original poster planning to monitor their cognitive performance while using the treatment. A user responds that most people do not experience cognitive shifts, though some report subtle changes.
The user experienced a receding hairline and tried minoxidil, which may have slowed the process but caused puffy eyes. They are hesitant to use finasteride and suspect oily dandruff might be an aggravator.
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.
Finasteride is seen as risky for men due to side effects like erectile dysfunction, while hormonal birth control for women is normalized despite its side effects. The discussion points out a double standard influenced by societal and gender norms.
Oral minoxidil may cause dry skin and dark eye bags but doesn't significantly age the skin. Topical minoxidil is toxic to cats, and some users prefer finasteride.
Finasteride may cause sleep disturbances, with some users experiencing insomnia. Reducing the dosage, switching brands, or trying Dutasteride might help.
A user experienced heart problems after taking 1mg finasteride and 2.5mg oral minoxidil and is considering quitting minoxidil. Others discussed their experiences with heart issues and minoxidil, with some suggesting topical minoxidil as a safer alternative.
A user initially had side effects from finasteride, attributed them to anxiety and the nocebo effect, and after resuming the drug, experienced positive effects and now warns against misinformation about Post Finasteride Syndrome.
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.
Finasteride can cause sexual side effects, and reducing porn and masturbation may help improve sexual function. Some users experience persistent issues even after stopping finasteride.
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.
Exploring the idea of using facial hair properties for scalp regeneration in male pattern baldness, considering the potential of transferring androgen-resistant characteristics from facial hair to the scalp. Challenges include complexity, scalability, aesthetics, and safety, but the concept encourages innovative thinking beyond current treatments like Minoxidil, Finasteride, and hair transplants.
Post Finasteride Syndrome (PFS) is debated, with some users reporting severe side effects from finasteride, while others believe these effects are rare or psychosomatic. Treatments discussed include finasteride, minoxidil, and RU58841.
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.
Topical finasteride results in plasma levels 100 times lower than oral finasteride, potentially reducing systemic side effects. Users report similar efficacy with fewer side effects, suggesting a preference for topical application.
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.
Prolonged use of topical minoxidil and finasteride can lead to neuroendocrine and autonomic dysfunction, causing severe sensitivity and side effects. Recovery involves avoiding these treatments, supporting neurosteroid recovery, calming the sympathetic system, and rebuilding scalp health naturally.
Finasteride is not linked to a 60% risk of persistent sexual dysfunction; this figure applies only to those already experiencing sexual issues. Most users do not have side effects, and the study's methodology is criticized for selection bias.
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.
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.
The impact of creatine on DHT levels, and whether it could cause accelerated male pattern baldness (MPB). The user taking a 5 alpha reductase inhibitor found that their DHT levels actually reduced despite taking creatine for nine weeks. Replies suggested looking into testosterone levels as well and debating the safety of creatine use in relation to MPB.
Finasteride can cause sexual side effects like reduced libido and weaker erections, but experiences vary. Some users switch to dutasteride or topical treatments, while others stop finasteride to restore normal sexual function.
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.