Finasteride is not a miracle drug; results vary widely, with only 2/5 getting good results. Combining treatments like minoxidil and finasteride may help, but expectations should remain low.
The user follows a hair loss treatment routine including Propecia, oral minoxidil, ketoconazole, and plans to switch to dutasteride. They also focus on lifestyle changes, dietary supplements, and are considering laser therapy.
Dutasteride and finasteride have similar risk profiles despite Dutasteride blocking more types of 5AR in the brain. Some users report no mood issues with either drug, and it is suggested that Dutasteride's larger molecular size may limit its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier.
The user has been using liposomal topical finasteride since late 2022, progressively increasing the dose, but DHT serum levels remain largely unchanged. Despite using finasteride, minoxidil, microneedling, and ketoconazole, hair condition has neither improved nor worsened.
A user shared their one-year results using finasteride and minoxidil for hair loss, showing noticeable improvement. They started seeing results at six months, using 1ml liquid twice a day and a pill once a day.
A user shared progress pictures after one month on oral dutasteride and minoxidil, noting some improvement despite initial shedding. They previously used finasteride for a year without noticeable change and emphasized the importance of photo comparisons.
A 49-year-old user shared progress pictures after six months of using oral finasteride (1mg), oral minoxidil (2.5mg), and ketoconazole shampoo twice a week, reporting no side effects.
The conversation discusses the impact of finasteride on sexual function, with many users reporting reduced libido and weaker erections despite continuing the treatment to prevent hair loss. Some users suggest checking hormone levels or switching to different dosages or treatments like dutasteride, while others share mixed experiences regarding the severity of side effects.
Biotin is being misleadingly marketed as a primary treatment for androgenic alopecia, overshadowing more effective treatments like finasteride and minoxidil. There is a call for increased awareness and accountability to prevent misinformation.
A user stopped using minoxidil after 10-12 years due to severe side effects like fluctuating blood pressure and chest pain, resulting in significant hair loss. Other users shared similar experiences, emphasizing health over hair and suggesting alternatives like finasteride, nanoxidil, and rosemary oil.