Why DHT Blockers Cause Insomnia & Anxiety: How Progesterone Solves the 5-Alpha Paradox

Infographic showing how 5-alpha reductase converts progesterone into allopregnanolone for sleep and mood, and how DHT blockers disrupt this pathway.

In the pursuit of optimized health, hormonal balance, and aesthetic preservation, the enzyme 5-alpha reductase (5-AR) often plays the role of the villain. It is the biological catalyst responsible for converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the potent androgen blamed for male pattern baldness, acne, and prostate enlargement. Consequently, a massive market has emerged for “DHT blockers”—ranging from pharmaceutical heavyweights like finasteride to natural pantry staples like pumpkin seeds, zinc, and saw palmetto.

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Progesterone-Induced Dizziness: Is Allopregnanolone Spinning Your World?

dizzy dirty blonde woman in blue shirt holding her head and closing her eyes

If you’ve felt unusually drowsy, dizzy, or mentally foggy after taking progesterone, the neurosteroid allopregnanolone may be the reason. This powerful metabolite of progesterone influences brain function, mood, and stress response, but its calming effects can sometimes feel overwhelming. In this article, we explore what allopregnanolone is, why it causes side effects like dizziness, what factors influence its activity, and how to support your body’s ability to metabolize it effectively.

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