Topical dutasteride is more effective than oral finasteride for male pattern hair loss, with fewer side effects. Some prefer oral treatments for convenience, while others use topical solutions like minoxidil and dutasteride, sometimes with microneedling, for better results.
A long-term finasteride user experienced side effects like sexual dysfunction, dry eyes, muscle weakness, and brain fog, which improved when they stopped the medication. They decided to stop finasteride again, questioning if maintaining hair was worth the negative impact on their well-being.
A user experienced initial side effects from finasteride, including erectile dysfunction and emotional changes, but later noticed increased muscle mass and assertiveness. Hormonal tests showed elevated estrogen and prolactin levels, which slightly decreased over time; the user plans lifestyle changes to see if they help.
Some users experienced erectile dysfunction with finasteride but not with dutasteride, while others had issues with both. Individual reactions vary, with some reporting improved mood and hair growth on dutasteride.
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.