Why is Finasteride/Dutasteride not working for me, and should I stay on it?

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

This needs an in-person evaluation. I suggest seeing a hair loss expert now to evaluate and go over your condition and provide you information about your best treatment options. There are great non-invasive options like prp/progesterone and/or hair transplantation. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

In my opinion,There are reports of minoxidil as well as dutasteride losing Effectiveness over time. Furthermore, dutasteride is only 85% effective in blocking DHT  I would consider adding low level laser, PRP or a nutraceutical.  Visit a hair loss expert and get an assessment and assistance with your treatment plan.

One really needs to see your scalp up close and know more information to give a solid answer. There are several possibilities that need to be considered: 1) you have androgenetic alopecia (AGA) that is incompletely blocked by inhibition of 5 alpha reductase 2) you have AGA that is responding nicely to these medications but you have another reason for hair loss than has not been addressed. 

From our experience using these products work better for the crown area. Most of patients continue to lose hair and specially recede in the frontal hair line. You need to be evaluated in person and most likely need hair transplant in the front and medical hair treatment for the crown area. Sometimes when a client stops using the products the hair loss is excellerated. 

Most crown balding does respond to finasteride, however you sound like you are losing ground with it. At some point the hair follicles that contain 5 alpha reductase will be gone and you will stabilize. Many with crown balding are good candidates for hair transplantation and results can be natural if performed artistically and correctly. Please be aware that PRP lacks evidence of success and should be avoided. I wish it did work.

From your history, you have a resistant form of genetic hair loss and the loss often continues over time. Generally people like you end up with hair transplants based upon the balding patterns that they develop. You should have a one-on-one consultation with an expert in this field.