Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Action of 5α-Reductase Inhibitors May Be Mediated by Dehydroepiandrosterone

The conversation is about managing allopregnanolone deficiency caused by 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors like finasteride or dutasteride. Specific treatments discussed for hair loss include Minoxidil, finasteride, and RU58841.

Topical androgen receptor antagonists may not be necessary if 5-AR inhibitors like finasteride or dutasteride effectively reduce DHT levels. Combining a 5-AR inhibitor with a topical androgen antagonist could potentially enhance treatment, but oral use of androgen antagonists is too risky due to severe side effects.

Dutasteride may inhibit androgen receptors in addition to reducing DHT, potentially explaining its effectiveness over finasteride for hair loss. Concerns about its impact on muscle growth are debated, with some suggesting no significant effects.

The conversation discusses the molecular structures of compounds that reduce DHT levels, including finasteride and Ashwagandha. It explores the potential of using Ashwagandha topically as a 5a reductase inhibitor.

Dutasteride at 2.5 mg/day reduces scalp DHT by 80%, while 0.5 mg/day reduces it by 50%, with minimal difference in side effects. Users often combine it with finasteride, RU58841, and minoxidil for better hair loss management, though side effects like dry skin and pimples are noted.

The conversation discusses that dutasteride may be more effective than finasteride for frontal hair loss due to higher 5ar Type 1 enzyme activity in that area. Some users question the validity of this information, while others confirm it with additional sources.