Finasteride vs dutasteride: How do they work for male pattern hair loss?

DHT stands for dihydrotestosterone. In people with male pattern hair loss, this hormone can cause scalp hair follicles to shrink over time. The hairs they produce become thinner and shorter. Finasteride and dutasteride lower DHT by blocking an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase.

Finasteride mainly blocks type 2 of this enzyme. Dutasteride blocks types 1 and 2. This means dutasteride generally lowers DHT more. However, a larger drop in DHT does not guarantee a larger change in hair growth. Both medicines may help slow thinning caused by male pattern hair loss. Results vary.

These medicines do not treat every cause of hair loss. Sudden shedding, bald patches, scalp pain, or hair loss after an illness may need a different workup. A licensed physician in your state decides whether either medicine is appropriate after reviewing your symptoms and health history.

Oral finasteride is FDA-approved for male pattern hair loss in men. Dutasteride use for hair loss is off-label, meaning the FDA has not approved it for that use.