5-Alpha-Reductase Inhibitors Are Associated With Reduced Frequency of COVID-19 Symptoms in Males With Androgenetic Alopecia

The conversation discusses the effectiveness of finasteride and dutasteride in treating hair loss, emphasizing that significant results often take 12-18 months or more. Dutasteride is generally considered superior, with similar or fewer side effects than finasteride, but patience is required for noticeable improvement.

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.

A user shared their 11-year experience with spironolactone and nearly 5 years with finasteride for hair loss, recently adding oral minoxidil and stopping birth control. Various treatments were discussed, including organic options, checking for underlying health issues, considering dutasteride, and the potential role of progesterone in hair loss.

Effective treatments for male pattern baldness include finasteride, dutasteride, and oral minoxidil. Non-effective approaches include oils, shampoos, serums, laser therapies, massages, vitamins, and microneedling.

Finasteride can reduce neuroactive steroids, causing side effects like depression, anxiety, and sexual dysfunction. Some users experience persistent symptoms after stopping finasteride, while others use alternative treatments like topical solutions.

Dutasteride may not effectively stop scalp hair loss and can cause thinning of facial and body hair, including eyebrows. Users suggest considering other causes like autoimmune conditions or vitamin deficiencies and exploring treatments like finasteride or minoxidil.