Tales of Bugs, Delusions of Parasitosis, and What to Do

Finasteride may trigger anxiety disorders in susceptible individuals, leading to symptoms often mistaken for permanent damage. Effective treatment should focus on addressing anxiety and panic disorders rather than hormonal imbalances.

An SSRI (paroxetine) reduced hair loss and itching for a user with male-pattern baldness, but liver issues forced discontinuation, leading to increased hair loss and anxiety. The user plans to try other anti-anxiety medications, noting stress and anxiety significantly impact hair loss.

Finasteride caused brain fog and reduced the effectiveness of mirtazapine for the user, leading them to stop finasteride and notice improvements in motivation and focus. The user suggests that finasteride might be incompatible with mirtazapine for some people and recommends mirtazapine for those experiencing mental fog from finasteride.

The user is anxious about potential side effects of finasteride, particularly PFS, and is considering reinstating it for hair loss treatment. They experienced anxiety-induced side effects previously and are seeking advice on overcoming their fear of restarting finasteride.

Finasteride and Dutasteride do not cause depression or "Post Finasteride Syndrome," with concerns often linked to the nocebo effect and preexisting mental health issues. The EU is unlikely to ban these drugs, but access may become more restricted due to ongoing debates.

A medical student experienced hair loss slowing with Finasteride but developed severe, treatment-resistant insomnia. They tried various medications with little effect, suspecting Post-Finasteride Syndrome, and others suggested the insomnia might be linked to Finasteride's impact on neurosteroids.