Effects of Long-Term Treatment With Finasteride (MK-906), a 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitor, on Circulating LH, FSH, Prolactin, and Estradiol

Switching from finasteride to dutasteride may be more effective for hair regrowth due to dutasteride's stronger enzyme inhibition, but combining both drugs could enhance results. Some users report better outcomes with dutasteride, while others recommend a gradual transition to prevent potential hair loss.

The conversation discusses the mechanism of action of alfatradiol (17 alpha estradiol) in treating hair loss. It explores theories that it either inhibits 5 alpha reductase to prevent T->DHT conversion or aromatizes scalp T into 17-alpha-estradiol to save hair.

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

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 user shared their excitement about starting finasteride for hair loss after trying various ineffective methods. Other users discussed their experiences with finasteride, including shedding phases and side effects, with one mentioning using topical finasteride and minoxidil.

Topical Finasteride doesn't directly reduce 5ar enzyme on scalp and has the same mechanism as oral, needing to go through the liver. Users debate the accuracy of this information and discuss various studies and experiences.