6 citations
,
September 2005 in “Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy”
Androgen therapy can help with symptoms like low libido in women, but more research is needed to understand its long-term safety and effects on health.
54 citations
,
August 2017 in “Gynecological Endocrinology”
Lifestyle changes and weight loss are key for treating PCOS-related metabolic issues and infertility, with various medications available for specific symptoms.
A 23-year-old is considering finasteride for hair loss but is concerned about worsening pre-existing mild gynecomastia. They plan to start with a low dose and monitor symptoms, seeking advice from others with similar experiences.
Dutasteride and finasteride are used for hair loss, affecting hormone levels like DHT and testosterone. Hormone balance is crucial, as changes can lead to side effects such as increased estradiol and potential hair loss.
The conversation discusses starting low-dose oral finasteride for hair loss, considering hormone levels and potential side effects like gynecomastia. Suggestions include using DIM for estradiol, vitamin B6 for prolactin, and lifestyle changes to optimize hormone profiles before starting treatment.
The user has been taking 0.5 finasteride for 10 months and wants to repeat blood tests, including estradiol. However, their doctor is reluctant to test estradiol, arguing it's typically low in men, and the user is considering seeking a second opinion.
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.