343 citations,
December 2008 in “Endocrine Reviews”
Metformin helps with menstrual cycles and insulin levels in PCOS but is less effective for hair growth, diabetes prevention, and weight loss, and may improve fertility and reduce diabetes risk.
Hair loss theory suggests imbalance between Vitamin D Receptor (VDR) and Androgen Receptor (AR) activation. Proposed treatment includes upregulating VDR, downregulating AR, and improving mitochondrial health.
Switching from finasteride to dutasteride for hair loss yields mixed results, with some users experiencing improvements and others facing worsening conditions or side effects like shedding. Patience is advised as dutasteride may take longer to show results, and combining treatments is suggested by some users.