Medications · FAQ
How does dutasteride work for hair loss?
Short answer
Dutasteride blocks both types of an enzyme that turns testosterone into DHT, a hormone linked to pattern hair loss. Oral dutasteride lowers DHT more than oral finasteride, but that does not prove a compounded topical works better. Results vary. A licensed physician decides whether treatment is appropriate.
Dutasteride blocks both types of an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase. This enzyme turns testosterone into dihydrotestosterone, or DHT. In people with pattern hair loss, DHT can cause some scalp hair follicles to shrink over time. This may lead to thinner, shorter hairs and less scalp coverage.
Oral dutasteride lowers DHT more than oral finasteride. That difference does not prove that a compounded topical dutasteride product will give better hair growth. The amount absorbed through the scalp can depend on the formula, dose, and skin condition. Results vary, and evidence for compounded topical dutasteride is more limited than evidence for certain approved hair loss treatments.
Verra offers dutasteride in a compounded topical with minoxidil. Compounded medications are prepared by a licensed pharmacy for one patient and are not FDA-approved. A licensed physician in your state reviews your health history and hair loss pattern before deciding if treatment is appropriate. Not all hair loss is caused by DHT.
Sources
Written by the Verra clinical team · Medical review pending
General information, not medical advice. If you're in crisis, call or text 988.