The user successfully overcame finasteride side effects by lowering the dosage and adding zinc and vitamin B6 supplements. They also micro-dosed dutasteride and resumed weight lifting.
A user reported that after using a topical mix of finasteride and minoxidil, their DHT levels decreased, testosterone and estradiol levels lowered unexpectedly, and they are considering vitamin D3 supplements due to deficiency. They apply the mix 3-4 times a week and use minoxidil on other days. Another user commented that finasteride typically increases testosterone, not decreases it.
A 20-year-old male currently using topical minoxidil 5% is considering starting finasteride 1mg due to elevated hormone levels. He seeks advice on whether to adjust anything before beginning finasteride.
A user experienced increased estradiol, nipple tenderness, and ED after taking finasteride. They are considering dose reduction to mitigate these effects.
Tretinoin may enhance minoxidil's effectiveness for those not responding to minoxidil alone, but it could reduce efficacy for some who are already responding to minoxidil. Tretinoin requires careful use, including skin moisturizing and sun protection due to increased sensitivity.
Finasteride was intentionally developed to treat BPH and later approved for male pattern baldness (MPB) due to its 5AR inhibition effects. The delay in MPB approval was due to concerns about off-label use for female hirsutism and the prioritization of treating a more debilitating condition.
User shared progress pictures after 3 months of using topical finasteride, topical minoxidil, dermastamp, and Nizoral. They applied finasteride and minoxidil daily, used dermastamp weekly, and Nizoral every other day.
A user discusses their experience with dissolving high concentrations of minoxidil in various ethanol/PG ratios and mentions difficulties with combining it with RU58841. They note that a 5% minoxidil solution remains stable, while higher concentrations tend to precipitate.