Potential side effects of 5AR inhibitors like finasteride and dutasteride. Users debate risks, benefits, and personal experiences with these hair loss treatments.
Finasteride was intentionally developed to treat BPH and later approved for male pattern baldness (MPB) due to its 5AR inhibition effects. The delay in MPB approval was due to concerns about off-label use for female hirsutism and the prioritization of treating a more debilitating condition.
A user's success in treating his diffuse and crown hair loss with finasteride and minoxidil; other users sharing their experiences, both successful and unsuccessful, and the importance of research and listening to one's body when deciding on treatments.
Treatments for hair loss, focusing on Fluridil/Topilutamide (Eucapil), Finasteride and RU58841 (Alfatradiol). The user reported that the Fluridil seemed to work well but had side effects of testicle ache, decreased mood and sex drive.
A user experienced puffy nipples and lumps from finasteride, leading to a dilemma between continuing treatment with potential surgery or accepting hair loss. They restarted finasteride at a lower dose with supplements but still face side effects and are seeking advice on whether to persist or stop.
Hair loss treatments discussed include Propecia, Rogaine, Nizoral shampoo, and dermarolling. Users shared experiences and results, with some noticing improvements in hair growth and maintenance.
Hair loss theory suggests imbalance between Vitamin D Receptor (VDR) and Androgen Receptor (AR) activation. Proposed treatment includes upregulating VDR, downregulating AR, and improving mitochondrial health.
A woman experiencing hair loss and facial hair growth suspects PCOS or androgenic alopecia and is considering treatments like Rogaine, but is concerned about the cost. She has tried various hair care methods and is awaiting a hormone doctor appointment, while others suggest she may have a hormonal imbalance and recommend seeing a gynecologist or trying cheaper versions of Rogaine.
A 25-year-old woman has been losing hair for 10 years despite normal thyroid, hormone levels, and B12 supplementation. She has used Minoxidil with limited success and is considering hair transplants, Propecia, or shaving her head and wearing wigs.
There is no permanent cure for hair loss; treatments like finasteride, minoxidil, and hair transplants require ongoing use and are not universally effective. Genetic complexity and financial incentives for ongoing treatments hinder the development of a definitive cure.
Deoxyribose sugar gel may stimulate hair regrowth similarly to minoxidil by enhancing blood supply and follicle activity. Human trials are necessary, and current products have mixed results.
Clascoterone 5% topical solution is effective and safe for long-term use in treating male pattern hair loss. Cosmo Pharma aims for EU and US approval, with a potential US release in late 2027 or early 2028.
A 47-year-old has been using finasteride for 25 years for hair loss, but it's less effective now. Suggestions include switching to dutasteride, stopping anastrozole, and trying minoxidil, microneedling, and possibly TRT.
Topical Clascoterone showed a 539% improvement in hair count compared to placebo, but its effectiveness and safety are debated. Users compared it to minoxidil and finasteride, with mixed opinions on its potential release in 2026 or 2027.
Microneedling, especially when combined with minoxidil, is generally considered effective for hair regrowth, though results vary by individual. Some users report enhanced results, while others caution about potential scarring and recommend professional guidance.
The user has been using finasteride for six years and minoxidil for three years with no noticeable hair regrowth. Suggestions include switching to dutasteride, considering a hair transplant, and trying microneedling.
The user is considering stopping finasteride due to depression, anxiety, and difficulty building muscle, despite its effectiveness in stopping hair loss. Suggestions include reducing the dose, switching to topical solutions, or consulting a doctor for alternatives like dutasteride or RU58841.
Creatine may counteract minoxidil's hair growth effects by closing potassium ATP channels, potentially leading to hair loss in predisposed individuals. Despite anecdotal reports, there is no conclusive evidence linking creatine to hair loss.
Microneedling is often combined with minoxidil for hair growth, but concerns about scalp damage, pain, and effectiveness deter some users. Alternatives like finasteride, dutasteride, tretinoin, and laser treatments are preferred by others.
Finasteride is discussed as a hair loss treatment with benefits like reduced prostate enlargement and skin aging, but it is not seen as a "fountain of youth." Users report mixed experiences, including side effects like decreased libido and dry eyes.
Creatine may cause increased hair shedding due to androgen receptor sensitivity, despite limited evidence. The user is using dutasteride and minoxidil and seeks advice on whether shedding will stabilize, with suggestions including GHK-Cu and RU58841.
The user is experiencing rapid hair loss despite using dutasteride, finasteride, and minoxidil, and is concerned about high estradiol and testosterone levels. They are advised to consult an endocrinologist for potential hormonal imbalances.
Dutasteride significantly reduces DHT levels, potentially more effectively than finasteride, and is used to treat hair loss. Some users report side effects like reduced libido and mood changes, while others experience hair regrowth and increased testosterone.
DIM is suggested to help with estrogen metabolism for those on finasteride or dutasteride, potentially reversing side effects like fat gain and mood changes. Some users doubt its effectiveness, recommending lifestyle changes or consulting a doctor instead.
A user experienced significant hair regrowth after 4 months using topical finasteride and minoxidil, along with dermastamping and biotin supplements, without side effects. They are not considering a hair transplant due to the success of this regimen.
Ketoconazole shampoo helps reduce hair shedding and improve thickness for some, but can cause dryness or irritation. Its effectiveness compared to finasteride or minoxidil varies among users.
Stopping finasteride often restores sexual function, with many experiencing improved libido and erections. Some users switch to minoxidil or topical finasteride to manage side effects while maintaining hair health.
Minoxidil alone is often insufficient for treating hair loss because it doesn't address the DHT-related cause. Combining it with finasteride, a DHT blocker, is generally more effective.
Oral minoxidil is generally effective for hair loss but may cause side effects like heart palpitations and facial puffiness. Users highlight the importance of monitoring blood pressure due to potential cardiovascular risks.
Bryan Johnson uses topical dutasteride, minoxidil, and microneedling for hair loss. Users discuss treatment effectiveness and side effects, debating topical versus oral dutasteride efficacy.