Androsterone may help with sexual and affective dysfunction from finasteride by replacing disrupted neurosteroids without increasing androgenic side effects. Controlled testing is needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety.
Finasteride may affect neurosteroids, impacting mood and sexual function, with varied user experiences. Some report side effects like depression and sexual dysfunction, while others find it effective for hair retention or prefer alternatives like Dutasteride or topical treatments.
Dutasteride at 0.5 mg/day does not significantly alter allopregnanolone levels, but higher doses (2.5 mg/day) do. Dutasteride may also have anti-neuroinflammatory effects, but the impact on neurosteroids is still debated.
The conversation discusses concerns about potential cognitive and emotional effects of finasteride, with the original poster planning to monitor their cognitive performance while using the treatment. A user responds that most people do not experience cognitive shifts, though some report subtle changes.
The conversation discusses concerns about finasteride's potential cognitive and emotional effects, with some users advising against its use due to anxiety about side effects. Others report no cognitive issues while on finasteride, with one user noting increased libido and another mentioning initial headaches.
Hair loss treatments, specifically 5AR inhibitors, can impact neurosteroids and sexual health. The effects of topical fin/dut on tissue-specific DHT levels are unclear.
Concerns about finasteride's side effects on neurosteroids and brain health, with skepticism towards Kevin Mann's advice. Users discuss using finasteride, minoxidil, and RU58841 for hair loss, with mixed opinions on their safety and effectiveness.
Finasteride and dutasteride are discussed for hair loss, with concerns about their effects on neurosteroids and potential side effects like depression. Alternatives like topical estrogen and lifestyle changes are considered, with varying opinions on mental health and hair regrowth.
A 22-year-old resumed using finasteride, minoxidil, and a 0.5mm dermaroller after stopping for two years, experiencing positive results and improved mood. The discussion includes debates on the effects of finasteride on neurosteroids and the optimal dermaroller needle length for hair regrowth.
The user has been taking 1mg finasteride daily for a year with no improvement in hair loss and reports low cortisol levels, sleep issues, and anxiety changes. The conversation includes discussions on the potential effects of finasteride on cortisol and neurosteroids, with suggestions to consult a doctor and consider other factors.
Finasteride can cause side effects like erectile dysfunction and decreased libido, possibly due to increased estradiol from testosterone aromatization, especially in those with higher body fat. Side effects vary widely and may also be influenced by genetic factors or neurosteroid inhibition.
Prolonged use of topical minoxidil and finasteride can lead to neuroendocrine and autonomic dysfunction, causing severe sensitivity and side effects. Recovery involves avoiding these treatments, supporting neurosteroid recovery, calming the sympathetic system, and rebuilding scalp health naturally.
A user reports experiencing insomnia as a side effect of taking finasteride for hair loss, which takes 1 to 2 hours to fall asleep and results in only about 5 hours of sleep per night. They suspect the cause is related to the downregulation of neurosteroids due to finasteride.
A medical student experienced hair loss slowing with Finasteride but developed severe, treatment-resistant insomnia. They tried various medications with little effect, suspecting Post-Finasteride Syndrome, and others suggested the insomnia might be linked to Finasteride's impact on neurosteroids.
A 22-year-old male experienced hair loss potentially linked to escitalopram, which stopped after switching to vortioxetine. His depressive symptoms improved with continued treatment.
A homemade topical solution of finasteride and minoxidil effectively stopped hair shedding and promoted regrowth without side effects. Users shared experiences and discussed different concentrations and application methods.
Dutasteride may have fewer side effects than finasteride, with some users experiencing better hair maintenance. Experiences vary, with some preferring dutasteride for fewer side effects, while others see no significant hair improvement.
Finasteride not only inactivates the 5a reductase enzyme but also affects the 5b reductase enzyme in a dose-dependent manner, which can impact sexual behavior and brain activity. The user experienced significant hair regrowth and side effects on 1mg of finasteride, which diminished after reducing the dose to 0.5mg, leading to no side effects and further hair improvement.
The conversation discusses hair regrowth using dutasteride and oral minoxidil, with the user reporting significant improvement in hair volume after combining these treatments. Some side effects mentioned include changes in libido and increased facial hair, but overall, the user is satisfied with the results.
A child accidentally took Avodart, leading to concerns about DHT suppression and its effects. Users humorously discuss potential consequences and treatments like DHT injections and topical solutions.
The user shared their experience with hair loss treatments, including low-dose minoxidil, finasteride, and essential oils, and expressed concerns about the cognitive side effects of finasteride. They are seeking more information on how finasteride may affect cognition and are considering whether to continue or stop the treatment.
The post discusses microdosing finasteride to minimize side effects while treating hair loss. The user also mentions using minoxidil, biotin, and ketoconazole.
Some people experience side effects from finasteride but not dutasteride, and vice versa, despite dutasteride being a stronger drug. Users discuss switching between these treatments and mention trying alternatives like KX826 and minoxidil.
The conversation discusses the use of androsterone after a hair transplant, comparing its effects on hair loss risk to testosterone plus dutasteride. The user seeks mental benefits from androsterone without harming hair, despite concerns about its potential impact on follicles.
Reducing sebum can indirectly lower DHT levels, with treatments like accutane, tretinoin, and green tea extract acting as DHT blockers. Accutane can lower DHT levels by reducing 5α-reductase activity, but its impact on hair varies.
Finasteride and dutasteride have potential risks, including post-finasteride syndrome, but are commonly used for hair loss. RU58841, minoxidil, and needling are suggested as alternatives, though all treatments carry risks.
Finasteride is preferred over dutasteride due to its longer history, more research, and FDA approval, despite dutasteride being more potent. Users report varied side effects, influencing personal treatment choices.
Topical finasteride results in plasma levels 100 times lower than oral finasteride, potentially reducing systemic side effects. Users report similar efficacy with fewer side effects, suggesting a preference for topical application.
Finasteride can reduce neuroactive steroids, causing side effects like depression, anxiety, and sexual dysfunction. Some users experience persistent symptoms after stopping finasteride, while others use alternative treatments like topical solutions.