The main page of PROPECIAHELP: Unresolved Finasteride Propecia Proscar side effects info & forum explains a lot about the cause of the side effects of Finasteride.
The following page clarifies the way Finasteride operates and recommends a low dosage Plasma DHT levels 7 days after various Finasteride dosages
It's interesting to note what kind of reasoning went behind the daily 1mg dose, since 1mg can keep DHT levels quite low for days. It may be advisable, as the thread recommends, to use much, much lower doses of the drug to control DHT rather than striking it down to minimum levels, considering DHT regulates many important processes.
I remember reading the dosage complaints were ignored based on the reasoning that doses up to 1mg didn't present any bigger significant risk over much lower doses, such as 0.2mg, and only increased effectiveness of the drug, but that seems to be before the recent permanent dysfunction scandal.
I have no credentials to give therapeutic advice, but i currently believe the safest method of Finasteride utilization may be the following:
- Take an extended hormonal tally test to evaluate DHT levels and testosterone levels.
Balding men tend to have low testosterone, i'm guessing because it is converted in excess into DHT, but that doesn't sound right.
The values to test can be found at point 6 of the FAQ at Unresolved Propecia & Finasteride Side Effects - FAQ
(Take note that every poster who wants to actually take the drug is automatically banned from the forums.)
- Start with the smallest dose possible and the lowest effective frequency according to the thread i inserted earlier.
- Increase the dosage slowly and progressively paying attention to all and any side effects, remembering frequency of usage is as important as dosage.
- Take new hormonal tally tests to ensure your hormonal balance is maintained periodically
In theory, a satisfactory level of DHT could be achieved before reaching the commonly prescribed dosage.
- If unsustainable side effects present themselves, quit by "tapering out" the medication, reducing its dosage and frequency instead of quitting instantly. This should limit the shock on your body.
- If side effects persist for months after stopping the drug, seek medical advice.
Albeit many endocrinologists may scoff at the mention of finasteride side effects, having proof your hormonal balance was permanently altered will convince them that your case requires treatment.
While this method doesn't assure you will be safe from side effects, it might ensure a lower impact and more sustainable recovery. The hormonal tests are important, because every person has fairly "personal" hormone levels and metabolic balance, thus taking tests before starting on finasteride will ensure you have a record of your natural hormonal balance, as a target for an eventual recovery therapy.
Finally, i recommend reading all the information on PROPECIAHELP: Unresolved Finasteride Propecia Proscar side effects info & forum and their forums.