Screening of Steroid 5-Reductase Inhibitory Activity and Total Phenolic Content of Thai Plants

Androgenic alopecia (AGA) might have evolved to reduce prostate cancer risk by increasing UV exposure to the scalp, but this theory is debated. Treatments like minoxidil and finasteride are used for AGA, though the exact causes and evolutionary reasons for hair loss are unclear.

User had a hair transplant and used a finasteride and minoxidil spray for 6 months with no results. After adding finasteride tablets for 1 month, they saw significant hair growth improvement.

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.

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

Most hair loss treatments are ineffective; only finasteride, dutasteride, and minoxidil show effectiveness.

Dutasteride is associated with increased blood glucose, HbA1c, LDL cholesterol, and liver enzyme activity, potentially leading to diabetes, NAFLD, and liver metabolism changes. The conversation highlights concerns about these adverse effects and calls for more studies, including on finasteride.