Patient’s Question:

Hi Dr. Friedman,

I was reading online about how DHT causes hair loss, and that Finasteride/Propecia can block DHT from causing hair loss. Reading further, I learned that finasteride only blocks one type of DHT, while Dutasteride/Avodart actually blocks both forms of DHT. My question is what is your opinion of using dutasteride as a DHT blocker? Wouldn’t it better for preventing hair loss since it blocks more types of DHT?  Also, if I started using it, do you think I would have a better chance at getting new hair growth as opposed to finasteride, since it is “stronger” ?     

Dr. Friedman’s Answer:

Dutasteride blocks Type 1 and Type 2 5 Alpha Reductase, whereas Finasteride blocks only Type 2 .  Fortunately, hair follicles primarily are responsive  to Type 2 since Propecia (Finasteride) is the only FDA approved oral medication for hair loss.  Dutasteride is not FDA approved for hair loss.

Thank you for your inquiry. Please call us at 480.500.7443 or send us an EMAIL if you have any further questions.

— Dr. Shelly Friedman, DO
Board Certified Hair Restoration Surgeon
Arizona’s Most Trusted Hair Loss Doctor
Named Phoenix Magazine’s Top Doc – Hair Transplant Surgeon

 

Written on September 28, 2017 | Categories: Hair Loss Medication, Hair Loss Prevention | Tags: ,