Long-term use of finasteride and dutasteride may be linked to health risks like fatty liver disease, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, dry eye disease, and potential kidney disease. Some users believe the risks are low and the medications are generally safe.
Sugary beverages increase the risk of pattern hair loss in men by 57%, and type 2 diabetes is linked to female pattern hair loss. Reducing sugar intake and using treatments like finasteride and minoxidil may help manage hair loss.
The potential health risks associated with long-term use of finasteride and dutasteride, with some responses pointing out the low quality of the journal that published the review article as well as highlighting other alternatives such as keto or minoxidil, and RU58841.
Androgenic alopecia (AGA) might have evolved to reduce prostate cancer risk by increasing UV exposure to the scalp, but this theory is debated. Treatments like minoxidil and finasteride are used for AGA, though the exact causes and evolutionary reasons for hair loss are unclear.
Male pattern baldness (MPB) may be an early warning sign for type 2 diabetes due to its association with insulin resistance. Treatments discussed include testosterone therapy and finasteride, which affects hormone levels related to hair loss and insulin sensitivity.