What happens when you block testosterone from becoming DHT, Doesn't it then turn to estrogen? (Hair loss question)

Question

Regarding hairloss. When you take something like propecia or even saw palmetto, these all (arguably) block the conversion to dht which helps to prevent further loss. But when testosterone is prevented from becoming dht, the only other option is to become estrogen which i believe is why men can get sexual sides effects and it can cause gynecomastia (I got this when i went through puberty). Is this Correct? And as someone that had gyno before am i more likely to get it again if i take this pill?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This needs an in-person evaluation. I suggest seeing a hair loss expert now to evaluate and go over your condition and provide you information about your best treatment options. There are great non-invasive options like prp/progesterone and/or hair transplantation. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

Finasteride blocks some conversion but not all. Yes, there is an increase in testosterone and estrogen with these drugs. Estrogen levels however don’t spike - they simply increase slightly. Studies have shown this is typically in the range of 13 % increase in estrogen. If one is already at risk for gynecomastia, using finasteride  will potentially add to the risk.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

The DHT blockers like finasteride, are what we call competitive inhibitors and only block the action of DHT on the hair follicle and not significant amounts of the production of DHT which still continues

What happens when you block testosterone from becoming DHT, Doesn't it then turn to estrogen? (Hair loss question)

Answers (3)

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