Phytotherapeutic Alternatives to the Use of Finasteride and Dutasteride as 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors in the Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia: A Review

    January 2024 in “ Brazilian Journal of Hair Health ”
    Eduardo Rosa Lucca, Patrícia Stadler Rosa Lucca
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    TLDR Some plant-based products might treat hair loss with fewer side effects than current medications.
    The review discusses the use of phytotherapeutic alternatives to finasteride and dutasteride in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia, a common form of hair loss. The current primary treatments, finasteride and dutasteride, inhibit the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme, which converts testosterone into DHT, a contributor to hair loss. However, these treatments have potential side effects, including sexual dysfunction and psychological disorders. The review highlights several plant-based products, such as Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens), Ginseng (Panax ginseng), Green tea (Camellia sinensis), and Pumpkin seed oil (Cucurbita pepo), which have shown antiandrogenic effects and beneficial impacts in treating androgenetic alopecia without significant side effects. These could serve as viable alternatives to finasteride and dutasteride.
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      community Study shows further evidence that finasteride and dutasteride take 12-18 months or more to show significant results. Do NOT give up early

      in Finasteride/Dutasteride  247 upvotes 1 year ago
      The conversation discusses the effectiveness of finasteride and dutasteride in treating hair loss, emphasizing that significant results often take 12-18 months or more. Dutasteride is generally considered superior, with similar or fewer side effects than finasteride, but patience is required for noticeable improvement.

      community It’s getting worse. (4 months)

      in Update  203 upvotes 1 year ago
      The conversation discusses hair loss treatments, with users suggesting the use of finasteride daily, considering minoxidil for aggressive hair loss, and discussing the normalcy of shedding during treatment. Some users recommend adding Nizoral shampoo and switching to dutasteride for better results.

      community Saying creatine causes loss on fin/dut makes no sense and this is why

      in Finasteride/Dutasteride  42 upvotes 11 months ago
      The conversation discusses whether creatine causes hair loss for those using finasteride or dutasteride, with some suggesting creatine might increase DHT or upregulate androgen receptors, potentially leading to hair loss. Others argue the evidence is not conclusive, citing limited studies and personal anecdotes, with some avoiding creatine as a precaution.

      community Why does it seem everyone favors finasteride over dutasteride?

      in Female  62 upvotes 8 months ago
      The conversation discusses preferences for hair loss treatments, specifically finasteride over dutasteride. Users share personal experiences, cost considerations, FDA approval status, and potential side effects, with some switching between treatments to find what works best for them.

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