Mendelian Randomization Studies of Testosterone Exposure: A Systematic Review

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.

An 18-year-old is considering testosterone replacement therapy with finasteride or dutasteride for hair loss but worries about side effects. Users recommend alternatives like minoxidil, RU58841, and consulting a doctor.

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.

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.

The conversation discusses the idea of naturally lowering testosterone levels to potentially reduce DHT and help with hair loss, though it is speculative and not tested by the original poster. Participants suggest using treatments like finasteride, dutasteride, or RU58841 instead, as they directly target DHT without reducing testosterone.

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.