I started on a low dosage too. One patch for first three months to see how I got along, then I moved to one and a half patches. I see you're based in the UK so you should have bloods done every three months at least.

Quote from: tesseract49 on June 06, 2015, 10:10:52 AM
I actually get my medication from an online private service whoch is run by a GP. She prescribes hormones and antiandrogens for you. I musy have blood tests in a few months. I started on a low dosage deliberately becasue I was scared and wanted the option to stop if I wasn't comfortable xxx

I must everyone. Is it actually proven that finasteride is only effective on DHT? Is it okay as an antiandrogen or am I wasting my time? xxx

The best bet is to consult your doctor. Different doctors have different reasons why they prefer one medication over another. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: tesseract49 on June 06, 2015, 12:49:35 PM
I must everyone. Is it actually proven that finasteride is only effective on DHT? Is it okay as an antiandrogen or am I wasting my time? xxx

The mods properly enforced TOS 8B and 8C on this thread.  If the drug is a prescription medication, issued by a doctor, or is frequently used in self medication; then these TOS items applies.

QuoteFinasteride (Proscar, Propecia)

Another good choice for an anti-androgen is finasteride (Proscar, Propecia), and is able to be used in concert with spironolactone. The primary use of Proscar (finasteride) was in the treatment of benign prostatic enlargement, but with its reintroduction as Propecia (finasteride), the drug is being largely marketed to promote scalp hair growth.  For transgendered women, finasteride when given in the larger dose promotes not only scalp hair growth but acts as an potent anti-androgen as it is highly effective in inhibiting the conversion of testosterone to DHT (dehydrotestosterone) responsible for male sexual characteristics.  Finasteride is usually physically well tolerated over long durations, but is expensive.

It is a prescription medication, that means you cannot post how to get it without a prescription. It is sometimes used in HRT, which means you cannot post recommended, or actual dosages.

This has been a long term policy, here is a notice from 2 years ago.

Quote from: Jamie D on June 12, 2013, 04:16:22 PM
Folks, although we are talking about medications that have an application for blocking DHT and helping stop, or reverse, male pattern baldness, we need to keep in mind that finasteride and duasteride are also prescribed as anti-androgens for the purpose transsexual HRT.

Consequently, an Administrator has advised that the dosages for these two medications be redacted in conformity with Rule #8 of the terms of service.

Thanks for your cooperation.

So the complaint I received is not valid.

I just want to add that I have done patches from the beginning.  When I first started them I had an increase in libido.  But after a month or so that settle to be below what I experienced before starting HRT, but still a happy medium amount

I wouldn't worry too much, especially early on.  Your body goes through a major shift in the beginning and it takes a while to adjust.

The only difference I noticed in the first month was decreased sexual desire. I don't recall when I went clear. I noticed the breasts going crazy in month 2. Just after month 3 was when my mind started changing for the better. I was happier and get a little more emotional. Now at month 6 my mind is usually at peace. I can relax. I still feel I'm missing some emotions though. I'm still hoping it will work itself out. My Endo is happy with my progress and won't make any adjustments to my meds. I was hoping she might give me a little more E, but I guess not.

I use the "Alora" patch on a twice weekly regimen.  Have only been on this mode of delivery since March. I have found that the best location for me is just above the buttocks (it's quite level there) and adhesion is pretty good.  Only issue is placing them without getting a wrinkle in it.  As far as results go, libido was the first thing I noticed - way down, which is great.  Male odor vanished early on. Body hair growth slowing including facial hair.  Skin softer and becoming more translucent. No real changes in the breast or nipples yet, but I'm only 90 days in.  Blood work drawn last Friday.  Awaiting the results anxiously. Yes, it's slower than I would like, just need to be patient.  It's not like the quick fix of surgery.  We are shocking a system that has taken years to develop and asking it to reverse course.  It will slow down gradually before it is able to recognize its new direction and re-gain momentum.