Dutasteride For Hair Loss

Article written by Dr. Blake Bloxham 

According to studies, over 70% of men and up to 50% of women will experience hair loss (Choi et al., 2022). Despite the staggering statistics, effective non-invasive treatments for hair loss remain very limited. Only two have been reviewed and approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (US FDA).

This creates an opportunity for patients to experiment with off- label, non-pharmaceutical, and “futuristic” hair loss medications.

Some of these are evidence-backed and might work; others likely fall comfortably into the “snake oil” category and should be avoided. One of the most popular “alternative” hair loss medications is dutasteride. But what is dutasteride? What is it for and how does it work? Can both men and women use dutasteride for hair loss? Are there any side effects? Most importantly: does it work for hair loss and should you take it?

Read on to learn the answers to this questions and “everything else” you need to know about dutasteride for hair loss!

Dutasteride, initially approved to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) — a natural enlargement of the prostate gland,, has become a prominent off-label treatment for androgenetic alopecia (male pattern hair loss). Dutasteride helped reduce prostate enlargement by inhibiting 5-alpha-reductase, the enzyme responsible for converting testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

Thus, dutasteride reduces the amount of DHT in the blood. According to studies, dutasteride can lower serum DHT levels by up to 98% (Choi et al., 2022). Along with causing prostate enlargement, DHT is also the hormone responsible for hair follicle miniaturization and eventual “hair loss” in androgenic alopecia (Choi et al., 2022).

In theory, lowering levels of DHT will reduce the amount available to bind to susceptible hair follicles and stop hair loss. But how much dutasteride must be taken daily for this to occur?

Dutasteride is primarily available in a 0.5 mg daily dosage, but some studies have explored higher doses like 2.5 mg daily for potentially more pronounced results.

0.5 mg Dutasteride Dosage

The standard daily dose of 0.5 mg has been shown to reduce serum DHT levels by over 90%, effectively halting hair loss and promoting regrowth in many cases (Choi et al., 2022). This dose is widely recommended due to user experience available study data. Additionally, this is the dose shown to very effectively reduce serum DHT levels by over 90%.

2.5 mg Dutasteride Dosage

Some research has indicated that higher doses, such as 2.5 mg daily, may provide slightly superior results in hair regrowth. However, this dosage also increases the likelihood of side effects, particularly hormonal imbalances (Choi et al., 2022).

It is generally reserved for cases where the standard dose has shown limited effectiveness and is used under close medical supervision.

Always consult your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage for your specific needs.

So we know how dutasteride works and the most effective dosage, but how long does it take to work?

Dutasteride is not an overnight solution; it requires time to show noticeable effects.

Initial Effects:

You may see reduced hair shedding within the first 3 to 6 months of use. However, sometimes patients can experience an initial “shedding phase” for the first 3-4 months of use. This is normal and will resolve.

Visible Results:

Hair regrowth or significant thickening usually becomes apparent after 6 to 12 months of consistent treatment.

Optimal Results:

Full results may take up to 18 months, especially for individuals with extensive hair loss. Patience and consistency are key, as discontinuation may reverse the progress made.

This all sounds good. Now how can you get it, right? Dutasteride is a prescription medication, so obtaining it legally requires a consultation with a licensed healthcare provider and a prescription for the medication IF he or she thinks it is appropriate.

Here’s how you can get started:

Consultation:

Visit a dermatologist, trichologist, hair transplant surgeon, or primary care doctor to discuss your hair loss concerns.

Evaluation:

A thorough assessment, including a scalp examination and possibly blood tests, helps rule out underlying causes.

Prescription:

If deemed suitable, your doctor will prescribe dutasteride.

Pharmacies:

Fill your dutasteride for hair loss prescription at a local or online pharmacy.

Telemedicine:

Some platforms offer virtual consultations and direct-to-door delivery of dutasteride, often as part of a hair loss treatment plan.

Please remember that dutasteride, like all prescription medications, is a serious treatment. It should not be taken casually or without proper counseling from a medical professional. Especially a medical professional with experiencing using dutasteride “off label” for hair loss. Those not obtaining dutasteride with a prescription are doing so at a greater risk — this includes the possibility of being sold counterfeit pills.

Dutasteride is typically taken once daily, with or without food, at adose of 0.5 mg. For some patients, doctors may recommend alternative schedules, such as every other day, especially when minimizing potential side effects.

Because dutasteride has an unusually long half life (upwards of 5 weeks when used in certain ways), taking it as infrequently as three times a week may still show results. But consistency is crucial for maintaining steady DHT suppression and achieving the best results.

5-alpha-reductase medications, like dutasteride, are not safe and should not be taken by women of reproductive age. DHT is crucial for normal fetal development (especially male fetuses). Any medication blocking or lowering the levels of DHT may significantly harm a fetus.

However, the drug may otherwise be effective in women with female pattern hair loss. So, off-label use does occur for postmenopausal women.

Remember:

• Postmenopausal Women: Dutasteride may be considered, as the risk of teratogenicity (birth defects) is eliminated.
• Premenopausal Women: Dutasteride is generally avoided due to its potential to cause birth defects if pregnancy occurs.

Safer alternatives for women include minoxidil for women or spironolactone for hair loss.

Women considering dutasteride must consult a specialist to evaluate risks versus benefits.

While dutasteride is effective, it may cause side effects in some users. According to the research, around 7.6% of patients taking dutasteride for hair loss experienced adverse effects (Choi et al., 2022).

This was lower than those taking finasteride or “Propecia,” another 5-alpha-reductase medication which is FDA approved for hair loss, which showed a 10.5% incidence of negative effects (patients taking recommended 0.5mg dutasteride daily or 1mg finasteride daily) (Choi et al., 2022).

• Mood Changes: Anxiety or depression in sensitive
individuals.
• Allergic Reactions: Rarely, rash, itching, or swelling.

While it is a controversial and hotly debated topic, some patients report persistent negative effects even after discontinuation of dutasteride — especially the concerning sexual side effects.

Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider can help mitigate risks. This is another reason why obtaining dutasteride through a trusted provided is crucial. Any negative side effects should be discussed with your provider immediately.

Dutasteride is a powerful option for managing androgenetic alopecia, offering significant improvements for many individuals. However, it requires medical supervision to ensure safety and optimize results.

If you’re considering dutasteride for hair loss, consult a qualified healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your situation. With the right dosage and consistent use, it may be the solution you’ve been seeking to combat hair loss.

References:
Choi, G.S. Et al. 2022 Ann Dermatol.Sep 27;34(5):349–359. doi:
10.5021/ad.22.027