Fetal Alcohol Syndrome: Current Status of Pathogenesis

Finasteride may affect male offspring's fertility and hormonal balance, with debates on whether to discontinue use before conception. Some users report no issues, while others highlight the high doses used in rat studies.

A user shared his experience of having two healthy children while continuously using finasteride (Fin) for hair loss, challenging fears about its potential impact on fetal development. The discussion that followed included various perspectives, with some users sharing similar experiences, others expressing concerns about potential risks, and some emphasizing the need for more substantial evidence before drawing conclusions.

The conversation discusses the hypothesis that a lack of the enzyme 3-alpha hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3α-HSD) on the scalp may contribute to hair loss by allowing DHT to accumulate. Despite interest in this theory, no recent research has been conducted, and current treatments like finasteride and minoxidil remain the most supported options.

Finasteride may affect liver function and cortisol levels, potentially linking it to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). More research is needed to understand this connection fully.

Fatty liver and related issues may influence hair loss conditions like Dupa/Aga. Treatments discussed include Minoxidil, finasteride, RU58841, myo-inositol, and L-glutamine.

Topical finasteride may have higher systemic absorption and lower efficacy when using a Propylene Glycol/Ethanol formulation compared to the hydroxypropyl chitosan (HPCH) formulation. The safety profile of topical finasteride relies heavily on the HPCH formulation, and using standard solutions might lead to different pharmacokinetics.