FinasteladActive ingredientFinasterideOther names: Proscar, Finasteride, Propecia, FinideActive half-life 5-6 hoursIn recent years, Finasteride has become popular among some anabolic steroid users as a means to address androgenic side effects. These side effects vary significantly based on genetics; some individuals can take high doses of steroids known for their strong androgenicity and experience little to no adverse effects. Genetics play a crucial role in determining how an individual responds to and metabolizes the androgen dihydrotestosterone (DHT).Effects ofFinasteride
The primary action of Finasteride is to prevent the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. By inhibiting DHT, Finasteride can help prevent hair loss, as DHT is known to damage hair follicles. Furthermore, DHT is linked to prostate enlargement, a condition that poses more significant health concerns than hair loss. Finasteride has shown to effectively reduce prostate enlargement after just six months of treatment.
When assessing the effects of Finasteride within the context of anabolic steroid use, it’s important to consider its interactions. Many anabolic steroids are derived from DHT, such as Oxymetholone (Anadrol), Methenolone (Primobolan), and Stanozolol (Winstrol), which means there is nothing for the 5-alpha reductase enzyme to act upon. However, testosterone-derived anabolic steroids, such as Testosterone (all forms), Methyltestosterone (Metandren), and Fluoxymesterone (Halotestin), provide the substrate for 5-alpha reductase, making Finasteride potentially beneficial for users of these steroids.
In situations where testosterone levels are elevated, there is an increased likelihood of DHT accumulation due to more testosterone being metabolized. This may enhance the androgenic side effects, which Finasteride can help mitigate. While it can protect against hair loss and prostate issues, the protection against hair loss primarily benefits those genetically predisposed to male pattern baldness. If someone does not have this predisposition, hair loss will not occur regardless of DHT levels, although elevated DHT may hasten the process for those who are prone to it. Additionally, Finasteride may aid in reducing acne that sometimes accompanies high androgen levels, but this benefit again applies mainly to those who are genetically sensitive to acne.
While Finasteride can diminish the relative androgenicity of anabolic steroids like Testosterone, Methyltestosterone, and Fluoxymesterone, it will not eliminate their androgenic properties entirely. Those who are particularly sensitive to androgen-related side effects should consider avoiding highly androgenic steroids. Men will still require exogenous testosterone when taking anabolic steroids but should aim to maintain it at lower levels.
It is important to recognize that Finasteride can actually increase the androgenicity of certain steroids, specifically Nandrolone and its derivatives, with Trenbolone being a primary example. Therefore, Finasteride and other 5-alpha reductase inhibitors should not be used alongside these steroids. Additionally, Finasteride has no effect on steroids derived from DHT, as there is no substrate for the enzyme to act on. If you are concerned about the androgenic effects of specific DHT steroids or strong androgenic steroids like Trenbolone, it may be wise to steer clear of them.
Side effects:
reduced libido, ejaculatory dysfunction; women who are pregnant or could become pregnant should avoid any contact with this substance to prevent serious harm to an unborn child.
Usage guidelines:
To address hair loss, typical doses of Finasteride are 1mg daily, while doses of up to 5mg daily may be used for managing prostate enlargement. For combating androgenic side effects in relation to anabolic steroid use, a dosage of 1mg daily is recommended during the duration of steroid administration.