External Genitalia Abnormalities in Male Rats Exposed In Utero to Finasteride, a 5α-Reductase Inhibitor

Finasteride helps with hair loss by lowering DHT levels in the scalp, which is more important than blood DHT levels. If finasteride is not effective, consulting a doctor or considering switching to dutasteride may be advisable.

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.

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 17-year-old is using oral dutasteride, finasteride, and topical minoxidil for hair loss, with plans to increase dutasteride and consider surgery. They report significant regrowth but are worried about side effects and the effects of blocking DHT at a young age.

A 19-year-old used a 0.01% topical finasteride formula, which unexpectedly lowered DHT levels significantly. They are considering reducing the dose further and exploring alternatives like ketoconazole shampoo, KX826, and CB to manage hair loss while minimizing systemic absorption.

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.