Avodart (Dutasteride) or Propecia (Finasteride) as a Hair Loss Drug?

I am considering using Avodart (dutasteride) as a hair loss treatment because it is supposedly stronger than Propecia (finasteride).   Does this sound like a good plan to regrow hair?

It appears that many more hair loss sufferers are turning to Avodart (dutasteride) for hair loss before first trying Propecia (finasteride).

Though Avodart (dutasteride) is said to potentially be a more potent hair loss drug,  it is not FDA approved for  hair loss.   Avodart (dutasteride) inhibits both type I and type II 5-alpha-reductase enzymes minimizing the production of DHT more than Propecia.   But with a more potentially potent drug comes more potentially potent side effects.

In my opinion, it would be better to try Propecia first, which has been FDA approved as a  hair loss medication. Many balding patients have great success with Propecia especially when combined with Rogaine 5%. (minoxidil).   Many hair restoration physicians will recommend trying Avodart as an alternate hair loss treatment in the event that Propecia isn’t working after 1 year of use.

Be sure however, to discuss these hair restoration treatments with a physician beforehand to learn fully about the benefits, limitations, and potential side effects.

Bill Seemiller
Associate Publisher of the Hair Transplant Network and the Hair Loss Learning Center
View my Hair Loss Weblog

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