I want to double the dosage of finasteride(1mg), dutasteride(0.5) to taking two pills each everyday? Is it harmful?

Question

i have seen multiple doctors they prescribed to me this drugs finasteride(1mg),dutasteride(0.5), i been taking them for a 3yrs and there r no results, my hair is falling a lot still. and i asked them to double the dosage and they didn't give me an answer or a clear one, so thats why i'm asking u doctors on realself, can double the dosage and take two of each one everyday? would it be harmful? p.s i have not experienced any side effects so far, i really don't want to have kids ever. and i am 23yo

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

Hello,Dutasteride theoretically has more potency for hair preservation than Finasteride but a higher side effect profile as well.  The use of dutasteride for hair loss is an off-label use according to the FDA.  Typically regrowth of both agents occurs in areas where the hair is miniaturized and not where slick baldness occurs.  Consider the use of regenerative techniques such as PRP and others and the use of nutraceuticals such as Nutrafol which have a much better side effect profile.Best, Dr. Anil Shah

Parsa Mohebi, MD, FISHRS · Answer

In this case more is not better and doubling the dose will not double the effect.   However, doubling it will increase the side effects.  During clinical trials and drugs development, a medication undergoes 3 or 4 phases before a drug is ever brought forth and presented for approval to the FDA.  This process can span over 10 yrs before a drug is brought to market.  During these phases, different dosages are tried in head to head trials.  It is during this time that the lowest effective dose with the least harmful side effects is decided.   In other words, 1mg of finasteride daily is that dose.  Beyond that, the risk and the cost outweigh the benefit.You should see a hair transplant specialist to review your case and give you a thorough exam.

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

If you gave been taking these for 3 years without effect, you'll want to sit down with a specialist to determine why they are not helpful. These drugs are only indicated for males with androgenetic alopecia, so you'll want to ensure another diagnosis is not present. It is unlikely that much incremental benefit will be realized in a male with androgenetic alopecia using both finasteride and dutasteride given that scalp DHT is significantly refuced already. Chances of side effects may increase including chances of mood disorders, sexual dysfunction and gynecomastia (breast enlargement)

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

It doesn't make sense to me for you to manage your own medications as these medications working together can cause problems like sterility

I want to double the dosage of finasteride(1mg), dutasteride(0.5) to taking two pills each everyday? Is it harmful?

Answers (4)