Carriers of 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency Are Not at Increased Risk for Hyperandrogenism

A user on Finasteride for 7-8 years reported unexpectedly high testosterone levels despite expecting lower levels due to age, with discussions on the impact of SHBG and suggestions to use boron to lower SHBG. Another user noted that Dutasteride significantly increased their testosterone and free testosterone levels.

The user received hormone test results showing normal estradiol and testosterone levels, low SHBG, and normal free androgen index. They are considering starting finasteride but are concerned due to being slightly overweight.

The user experienced hair shedding after starting testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) and is considering using DHT blockers like finasteride or dutasteride to address potential DHT-related hair loss. Low ferritin levels due to frequent blood donations may also contribute to hair issues, and the user is working on stabilizing iron levels.

FCE 28260 (PNU 156765), an under-explored 5α-reductase inhibitor, showcases promising results in research by Giudici et al., outperforming well-known treatments like Finasteride in reducing the conversion of testosterone to DHT. Its superior efficacy, demonstrated through lower IC50 values in both natural and human recombinant enzyme studies, suggests it could offer more effective management of DHT-related conditions. Additionally, its lower molecular weight hints at better potential for topical application, potentially offering advantages in treating conditions such as androgenic alopecia. Despite its potential, it has not advanced in development, possibly due to financial limitations, leaving its therapeutic prospects and side effect profile largely unexplored.

The conversation is about someone planning to start finasteride or RU58841 for hair loss and wanting to know which hormones to test beforehand. They found a package for testing testosterone, free testosterone, estradiol, and DHT, and are asking if these tests are enough.

A 22-year-old male has been using finasteride for 4 months without major side effects but is concerned about hormone test results showing low SHBG and high estrogen. He plans to consult a doctor and is considering alternatives like minoxidil or topical finasteride to avoid health issues.