Genetic Regulation of the Androgen Receptor: A Study of Testicular Feminization in the Mouse

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.

Bicalutamide blocks androgen receptors, preventing testosterone and DHT from binding, which can help with hair loss but may cause feminization. It is not recommended for those who do not want feminization effects.

The conversation discusses the use of 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors like finasteride and dutasteride for hair loss in transgender women, particularly in relation to testosterone suppression. The original poster has been using dutasteride and is considering stopping it due to undetectable testosterone levels.

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.

Finasteride treatment is being considered, and it's advised to track DHT, testosterone, estradiol, and SHBG levels to monitor hormonal changes. These tests will help understand the treatment's impact.

The conversation discusses using estradiol and its derivatives for hair loss without causing feminization. Users mention alternatives like alfatradiol, topical 17b-Estradiol, and DIM (Diindolylmethane).