Discovery of a Novel Hybrid from Finasteride and Epristeride as 5α-Reductase Inhibitor

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.

The conversation concludes that finasteride, a 5α-Reductase inhibitor used for hair loss, does not impair cognition either short-term or long-term. It suggests "brain fog" is not caused by the medication.

Finasteride can impact neurosteroids, potentially causing depression and other side effects in some users. Despite these concerns, many continue using it for hair loss, with some switching to topical applications to mitigate side effects.

User considers adding Alfatradiol to their topical finasteride treatment for hair loss. Others discuss Alfatradiol as a weak estrogen and 5α-reductase inhibitor used for pattern hair loss in men and women.

A 19-year-old with rapid hair loss since 16 is considering a hair transplant but refuses to take finasteride or any 5α-Reductase inhibitors. They are currently using minoxidil, tretinoin, and microneedling with a Derminator 2, and only want hair until age 27.

User started using Pantostin Alfatradiol after watching haircafe on YouTube and noticed thicker hair. They wonder why it's not more popular, as it's a 5α-reductase inhibitor with a different mechanism than minoxidil.