Dutasteride for hair loss: Is it effective?

Alopecia is a problem that affects a large part of the world population and that, on many occasions, ends up affecting the self-esteem of those who suffer from it. However, today it is possible to find a solution and, for this, there are specialized hair clinics in Spain to treat it. One of the solutions that are presented is the so-called Dutasteride for hair loss. It is a drug widely used in hair medicine to treat this type of hair problems.

In the blog de Hospital Capilar, an expert hair transplant clinic in Madrid, Murcia and Pontevedra, we tell you everything about Dutasteride for hair loss: Is it really effective? When is its use recommended? Does it have side effects?

What is Dutasteride?

It is a widely used drug in hair medicine, specifically Dutasteride is used for hair loss. It is defined as a antiandrogen that inhibits the enzyme 5 alpha reductase, which generates the Dihydrotestosterone that causes hair loss androgenic alopecia, the most common of all. In addition, it improves the thickness of the hair.  

In the Dutasteride line we find Finasteride, which is also still recommended to stop hair loss. It maintains the same antiandrogenic action as Dutasteride for hair loss, although with subtle differences. This is why the doctor can recommend one or the other depending on each particular case.

In which cases is Dutasteride used for hair loss?

Although Dutasteride for hair loss is currently a highly demanded drug to stop the progression of alopecia, it requires a prescription. The specialist doctor is the one who should assess the use of this type of medication based on the type of alopecia and general health status of the patient, among others.

Although Dutasteride is often associated with hair loss, it is not recommended in all cases. Our medical equipment ensures that it is highly effective in cases of androgenic alopecia, since it stabilizes it by inhibiting the creation of Dihydrotestosterone, a hormone that causes irreversible hair loss. It is usually combined with other types of hair treatments such as Platelet Rich Plasma or Minoxidil to achieve better results.

Is Dutasteride effective?

Dutasteride for hair loss is highly effective and stabilizes androgenic alopecia in both men and women. It is a long-term treatment, so it takes between 3 and 6 months to see results. However, we must not forget that androgenetic alopecia is a chronic disease that attacks the hair follicles, causing their destruction. If the treatment is stopped, Dihydrotestosterone begins to start its activity again and the hair will fall again. In any case, it will be the medical team who determines how to act in each case.   

Differences between Dutasteride and Finasteride

As we have previously commented, Finasteride is another of the best-known drugs to stop hair loss, again, in cases of alopecia of hormonal and genetic origin such as androgenic alopecia. Both are antiandrogens aimed at stopping the hormonal disruption that initiates hair loss, but with slight differences.

Distinct hormone block

While Dutasteride blocks types I and II of the 5 alpha-reductase enzyme, Finasteride only blocks type II. In other words, although both drugs inhibit the hormone that causes irreversible hair loss, it could be said that Dutasteride is stronger and more powerful. Even so, both are used for the treatment of this type of alopecia.

Greater effectiveness

Dutasteride blocks two types of the 5 alpha reductase enzyme and is therefore considered more effective than Finasteride. In addition, a lower concentration of Dutasteride is usually needed to stabilize androgenic alopecia than if Finasteride is used.

How is Dutasteride used for hair loss?

Dutasteride treatment for hair loss can be performed orally or through subdermal infiltrations. Opting for one or the other requires the opinion of an expert, in addition to the personal needs of each patient.

oral consumption

Oral Dutasteride simply consists of taking this drug daily. This form of administration is usually the least demanded, mainly due to the discomfort of taking this medication every day. In addition, in these cases the effects on the hair are usually appreciated somewhat later.

infiltrated dutasteride

Infiltrated Dutasteride, usually by hair mesotherapy along with vitamins, it is usually the most recommended option. A session is usually necessary every two months approximately, depending on each particular case. It is a hair treatment that does not leave visible marks and, in addition, acts directly at the root of the hair follicles, so the effects are usually visible sooner. In addition, we forget to consume medication daily.

Dutasteride Side Effects

Dutasteride for hair loss, as with any other drug, has side effects, although in a low percentage of patients. It is a safe medication with proven medical efficacy, but it is essential to take into account the possible adverse effects in order to notify the medical professional in your case.

decreased libido

Especially in the case of men, they may experience decreased libido and, in the most extreme cases, transient erectile dysfunction. These are remote side effects since a very low concentration of Dutasteride is administered for hair loss.

Allergic reaction

Another of the Dutasteride side effects to be aware of is a possible allergic reaction. If you notice symptoms such as itching, swelling or redness, it is essential to consult a doctor as soon as possible.

Does Dutasteride recover hair?

Drugs with antiandrogenic action such as Dutasteride are aimed at stopping hair loss in cases of alopecia of hormonal origin and improve hair quality, but do not encourage new hair growth. The only way to recover the hair that has fallen and has stopped growing naturally is with a hair graft..

El FUE hair transplant It consists of an outpatient surgical intervention through which the necessary hair follicles are extracted from the donor zone, that which is not affected by alopecia, and are implanted in the receiving area affected by baldness. The results of the hair transplant are given definitively once the first year has elapsed after the intervention, although it is true that after 6 months the first changes can already be appreciated.