A person considering finasteride for hair loss checked their hormone levels before starting treatment. They are concerned about the potential increase in estradiol and its effects, as well as the impact on their sex hormone-bindingglobulin (SHBG) and free testosterone levels.
Finasteride may decrease free testosterone by increasing SHBG, potentially causing side effects like reduced libido and hormonal changes. Some find it effective for hair loss, while others experience negative effects.
A 23-year-old male is considering starting Finasteride for hair loss after experiencing persistent shedding and hairline recession, with bloodwork showing normal testosterone levels but low DHEA-S and Vitamin D. He plans to discuss DHEA supplementation with his doctor and has already started Vitamin D supplementation.
The conversation is about a user planning to start minoxidil treatment and considering increasing zinc intake to improve testosterone and libido. They are concerned about potential hair loss due to increased testosterone and are advised to consider magnesium supplementation and the effects of DHT if not on finasteride or dutasteride.
A user on finasteride for 8 months shared bloodwork results showing increased testosterone and estradiol levels, with concerns about high LH. Responses advised monitoring for symptoms but noted levels are within reference ranges.