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.
Treatments for hair loss, including finasteride, dutasteride, minoxidil, ketoconazole, microneedling, and low level laser light therapy, which aim to reduce DHT production, increase cell absorption and blood flow, and stimulate epidermal stem cells. It also stresses the importance of patience when using these treatments.
The user regrets stopping finasteride and minoxidil due to side effects but plans to resume treatment. They consider using finasteride every other day and continuing topical minoxidil to manage side effects while maintaining hair.
Blocking the Mitochondrial pyruvate carrier and using aldose reductase inhibitors like Indian gooseberry and berberine may help with hair growth. Magnesium can also be added to increase NADPH.
A transgender individual is starting spironolactone and estradiol for hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and is considering adding finasteride to help with hair loss. They are also planning to use minoxidil and microneedle, but are unsure if they need to use another anti-androgen or more aggressive treatments. A respondent advises against using pyri and suggests waiting to see if the HRT alone is sufficient before becoming dependent on minoxidil.