Bioactives in Chinese Proprietary Medicine Modulate 5α-Reductase Activity and Gene Expression Associated with Androgenetic Alopecia

Hair loss treatments discussed include Dutasteride with Ketoconazole, tissue engineering strategies, and androgenetic alopecia therapies. Massage doubles follicular retention, improving treatment effectiveness.

Dutasteride is likely the most effective treatment for male pattern baldness, followed by finasteride and minoxidil in various forms and dosages. Users discuss personal experiences, dosages, and potential side effects, with some considering combining treatments for better results.

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 female user in her mid-20s with androgenetic alopecia and suspected telogene effluvium who has been taking Dutasteride, Spironolactone, Minoxidil, Dermarolling, Ketoconazol shampoo, and Yaz contraception for her hair loss for the past 6 months. She had a small shed during this time that she believes to be stress related.

The conversation discusses natural DHT blockers like rice bran oil, which may reduce 5α-reductase activity similarly to Minoxidil and Dutasteride. One user argues that finasteride is more reliable and effective than natural alternatives.

Evidence-based treatments for androgenic alopecia, such as minoxidil, finasteride, low-level laser light therapy, dutasteride, platelet-rich plasma, and topical ketoconazole. It discusses the efficacy, safety, and mechanism of action of these treatments, as well as future developments in understanding this polygenic condition.