Spironolactone vs Finasteride for male pattern hair loss - which one is best?

Question

I'm using Finasteride since 2014 for (genetic) male androgenic hair loss, and it's working ok, but my hair is still too thin, and somehow doesn't want to re-grow in those "thinned" areas. And, maybe it's a subjective feeling, but my hair still gets thinner with time. Therefore, would you recommend a combination of Finasteride&Spironolactone for my treatment? Would that help, or is it just a waste of effort?

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

Spironolactone is a blood pressure medication.  It is not a medication that is prescribed for male pattern balding.  It is best to consult with your doctor for an examination and treatment options.

David Deutsch, MD · Answer

I have not heard of Spironolactone being used for hair loss in men and am not aware of any studies.There are other adjuncts which might be beneficial in your case such as Minoxidil,Low Level Laser Light therapy and/or PRP(Platelet Rich Plasma).

Rae Lynne Kinler, MD · Answer

I do not know of anyone using spironolactone in male pattern hair loss. You should have a consultation with a hair restoration surgeon to have your hair and scalp evaluated, and all the options available to you besides finasteride discussed, including the addition of minoxidil 5%

Greg Williams, FRCS (Plast) · Answer

There is a simple answer - finasteride is licenced for male pattern hair loss and spironolactone is not. This is based on research evidence not anecdotal opinion.

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

Spironolactone causes enlargement of breast tissue in men - a phenomenon called gynecomastia.  Spironolactone causes gyecomastia in well over 50% of men using doses 150-200 mg daily. it decreases testosterone, and increases free estrogen levels. This can occur with finasteride but is less common. Overall, about 1:300 of men (0.3 %) using finasteride will develop gynecomastia. Spironolactone is not commonly used for hair loss in men.

Spironolactone vs Finasteride for male pattern hair loss - which one is best?

Answers (6)

Answer: Which is better - spironolactone or finasteride for male pattern hair loss?

Answer: Which is better - spironolactone or finasteride for male pattern hair loss?

Answer: Spironolactone for men - why we don't use it.

Answer: Spironolactone for men - why we don't use it.

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Everything you need to know about Hair Loss Treatment

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Spironolactone vs Finasteride for male pattern hair loss - which one is best?

Answers (6)

Answer: Which is better - spironolactone or finasteride for male pattern hair loss?

Answer: Which is better - spironolactone or finasteride for male pattern hair loss?

Answer: Spironolactone for men - why we don't use it.

Answer: Spironolactone for men - why we don't use it.

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Hair Loss Treatment

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.