Hair Loss Treatments: Why We Don’t Recommend Finasteride or Dutasteride at Enhanced Men’s Clinic

At Enhanced Men's Clinic, patient safety and well-being are our top priorities. While hair loss can be distressing for many men, we do not recommend finasteride or dutasteride as treatments for hair loss due to their potential side effects and impact on overall androgen balance. Here’s why:

1. The Role of DHT and Androgens in Men’s Health

• DHT (Dihydrotestosterone) is a potent androgen that plays a key role in male development during puberty. While research suggests that DHT may not be as critical in adult men compared to adolescents, anecdotal evidence shows that reducing DHT levels can lead to significant side effects in some men.
• Low DHT levels can cause symptoms similar to low testosterone, including fatigue, low libido, mood disturbances, and cognitive issues. These are symptoms we aim to treat with TRT, not exacerbate.

2. Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS)

• Post-Finasteride Syndrome is a well-documented condition where men experience persistent side effects even after discontinuing finasteride or dutasteride. Symptoms can include:
  • Severe sexual dysfunction (low libido, erectile dysfunction)
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Cognitive impairment
  • Loss of muscle mass and energy levels
  • Persistent fatigue
• These are significant quality-of-life issues, and while the exact prevalence of PFS is debated, the risk is enough to warrant caution.

3. Litigation and Concerns Over Clinical Trial Data

• Finasteride’s original manufacturers have faced multiple lawsuits for falsifying clinical trial data and underreporting the frequency and severity of side effects. This raises ethical concerns about the transparency and trustworthiness of the drug’s safety profile.
• Many men who have experienced adverse effects have reported feeling blindsided due to inadequate warnings about the potential risks.

4. The Gamble with Hair Loss Treatment

• While it is true that many men who take finasteride or dutasteride do not experience significant side effects, the potential risks should not be ignored. Hair loss is a natural and inevitable process for most men, and the decision to use a pharmaceutical intervention involves weighing the risks versus the benefits.
• For patients who are particularly concerned about hair loss, we aim to provide evidence-based, balanced advice to help them make informed decisions.

5. Our Approach at Enhanced Men’s Clinic