Does Finasteride lower your Testosterone? (testing my testosterone!)

Summary

In this informative video, the creator addresses common misconceptions about finasteride's impact on testosterone levels. Despite fears that the medication, used to prevent hair loss, could 'feminize' men or reduce muscle gains, the script shares the creator's personal experience and blood test results after 13 months of use. It explains the role of finasteride in blocking the conversion of testosterone to DHT, the hormone responsible for hair loss, and suggests this could actually increase free testosterone. The video concludes that finasteride does not lower testosterone levels, based on the creator's normal hormone test results, and emphasizes the importance of individual research and consultation before starting treatment.

Takeaways

• 💊 Finasteride is a medication used to prevent hair loss and the speaker is using it to maintain his hair.
• 🧬 Genetic predisposition plays a significant role in hair loss, and the speaker is naturally inclined to go bald.
• 💪 Concerns about finasteride affecting testosterone levels are common, but the speaker aims to debunk this myth.
• 🧪 The speaker has been on finasteride and minoxidil for 13 months and plans to test his sex hormones to assess the impact.
• 🏥 The speaker recommends consulting with experts and watching Derek from More Plates More Dates for in-depth knowledge on hormones.
• 🔍 Testosterone levels ideally should be over 300, but individual sensitivity to the hormone varies, affecting muscle growth and other functions.
• 🔗 Testosterone in the body is bound to proteins like SHBG or albumin, with some being converted to DHT, which causes hair thinning.
• 🚫 Finasteride blocks the enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT, potentially increasing free testosterone levels in the body.
• 🩸 The speaker undergoes a blood test to measure his hormone levels, emphasizing the importance of feeling healthy and normal.
• 📈 The results show that the speaker's testosterone level is 660, which is considered good, and his free testosterone is at 1.48% of the total, indicating a normal range.
• 🌡️ Factors like an overactive thyroid can influence SHBG levels, and the speaker mentions his thyroid being on the active side.

Q & A

What is the primary purpose of Finasteride as mentioned in the video?

The primary purpose of Finasteride mentioned in the video is to prevent hair loss and help maintain hair growth. The speaker uses it to stop himself from going bald.

How does Finasteride work in relation to testosterone and DHT?

Finasteride works by blocking the five Alpha reductase enzyme, which converts testosterone into DHT (Dihydrotestosterone). This means that less testosterone is converted into DHT, potentially increasing the amount of free testosterone in the body.

What is the significance of free testosterone in the body?

Free testosterone is important for optimal male health. It helps in muscle growth, libido, and energy levels. A higher free testosterone level is generally considered ideal.

What are the two proteins that most testosterone in the body is attached to?

Most testosterone in the body is attached to either SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) or albumen.

What is the general reference range for testosterone levels mentioned in the video?

The general reference range for testosterone levels mentioned in the video is over 300, but it's noted that this is just a rough reference and can vary among individuals.

How does the speaker feel about his testosterone levels after using Finasteride?

The speaker feels good about his testosterone levels after using Finasteride. He mentions having a score of 660, which he believes is optimal for him as he feels perfectly normal and functions well as a man.

What is the speaker's concern regarding his free testosterone level?

The speaker's concern is that his free testosterone level, which is 0.339, is a bit lower than the ideal range of 1 to 3% of the total testosterone. He would have liked it to be a bit higher.

Why did the speaker not get his DHT levels tested?

The speaker did not get his DHT levels tested because he believes that the amount of DHT in the system does not matter as much as how sensitive one is to it. He is focused on the effects of Finasteride on his hair loss and overall health.

What is the role of the thyroid in relation to SHBG levels?

An overactive thyroid can increase SHBG levels. The speaker mentions that he has a fairly active thyroid, which could be a reason for his SHBG levels being on the higher side of normal.

What advice does the speaker give regarding the use of Finasteride and testosterone levels?

The speaker advises that taking Finasteride does not tank testosterone levels and encourages viewers to do their own research and decide whether treatments like Finasteride are right for them.