Oral vs. topical finasteride?

The discussion by Dr. Andrew Huberman on the differences between oral and topical finasteride reveals several key points:

1. Efficacy and Systemic Absorption:

   • Both oral and topical finasteride can effectively reduce hair loss and promote hair growth by reducing dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels.
   • Topical finasteride, despite being applied locally, can enter systemic circulation. A typical 1% topical solution could equate to systemic levels similar to a lower dose of the oral form 1.

2. Side Effects:

   • While both forms can cause side effects due to DHT reduction, topical finasteride is associated with fewer and less severe side effects compared to the oral form.
   • This is partially because the topical form may not achieve systemic concentrations as high as the oral form if applied in smaller or less frequent doses 2 3.
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       1

       Finasteride Insights

       01:41:01
       
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       2

       Topical vs. Oral Finasteride

       01:45:30
       
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       3

       Topical Finasteride Insights

       01:49:04
       
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       4

       DHT Reduction Insights

       01:42:51
       

3. Dosage Recommendations:

   • For oral finasteride, starting doses can range from 0.5mg to 1mg daily. For topical finasteride, a weekly application might suffice, potentially leading to less systemic absorption immediately after application, but tapering off throughout the week 3.
   • Dr. Huberman emphasizes starting with the lowest effective dose to minimize side effects while maintaining efficacy 4.

4. Individual Sensitivity:

   • Sensitivity to finasteride varies widely among individuals, which can affect both the effectiveness of the treatment and the prevalence of side effects. This necessitates a tailored approach and possibly adjustments in dosing based on individual response 1.

Given these points, the choice between oral and topical finasteride should consider individual factors like sensitivity to side effects, ease of use, and specific hair loss patterns. Monitoring and consultation with a healthcare provider are recommended to optimize treatment outcomes and minimize adverse effects.