The Use of Saw Palmetto Versus Finasteride for the Treatment of Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome

The user experienced anxiety and side effects from topical finasteride and is considering switching to saw palmetto. Another user reported no improvement with saw palmetto and experienced liver issues.

Saw palmetto, a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, caused unexpected side effects like breast changes and altered semen consistency, which resolved after stopping its use. Concerns about similar side effects with finasteride or dutasteride were expressed, and another user reported low libido and depression from saw palmetto.

A 17-year-old is considering using saw palmetto for hair loss until they can get finasteride, while currently using minoxidil and ketoconazole. Users suggest that saw palmetto is weak, and recommend continuing minoxidil and ketoconazole until finasteride is available.

The conversation is about using topical saw palmetto for hair loss, with some users suggesting it is less effective than finasteride or dutasteride. The original poster is considering saw palmetto with dermarolling and specific shampoos, avoiding finasteride due to concerns about systemic effects.

Saw palmetto, particularly the standardized extract with 85% fatty acids, is discussed as a potential hair loss treatment, but opinions on its effectiveness vary. Some users combine it with other treatments like finasteride, minoxidil, and ketoconazole, noting mixed results in hair retention and shedding reduction.

Pumpkin seed oil and saw palmetto are discussed as natural DHT blockers with potentially fewer side effects than finasteride. Users share experiences with these treatments, noting concerns about mental health and side effects from finasteride.