Hair loss medication - would it be a good idea to switch to oral dutasteride and minoxidil?

Question

I have been on topical minoxidl for over 6 years now and have been on 1.25mg oral finasteride for over 3 years now. The topical minoxidl provided regrowth the first year but now has just flatlined the last few years. My hairline has staying the same over the years but i have slowly lost density. I was considering switching to oral dutasteride and oral minoxidl. Would this be a good idea and how should i go about it? Straight switch or slow introduction of the new medication?

Ross Kopelman, DO · Answer

Switching from finasteride and topical minoxidil to oral dutasteride and oral minoxidil can be a good option, especially if your current treatment has plateaued. Dutasteride is a stronger DHT blocker than finasteride, as it inhibits both types of the 5-alpha reductase enzyme, which may offer more protection against hair loss. Oral minoxidil can also provide more consistent hair growth stimulation compared to topical applications.
I recommend a gradual transition to avoid potential side effects or shock shedding. You could slowly introduce oral minoxidil while continuing with finasteride, and then gradually taper off finasteride while introducing dutasteride.

Hair loss medication - would it be a good idea to switch to oral dutasteride and minoxidil?

Answers (1)