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How Finasteride, Dutasteride & Minoxidil Work

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Hair Regrowth Treatment

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Introduction

Hair loss affects self-esteem, relationships, and overall confidence. Many wonder how treatments like finasteride, dutasteride, and minoxidil actually function at a biological level. In this article, we explain their mechanisms, evidence, and how StrideRx approaches their use—so you can understand what is happening beneath the scalp.

What It Is?

So here’s the deal with hair loss – the typical male or female pattern baldness we see is actually caused by how sensitive your hair follicles are to something called DHT (dihydrotestosterone). Basically, DHT gradually shrinks those follicles over time until they can’t produce healthy hair anymore.

Now, medications like finasteride and dutasteride work by blocking an enzyme that converts your regular testosterone into DHT. Think of them as gatekeepers that say “nope, we’re not making as much DHT today”. Dutasteride is actually the more aggressive of the two—it blocks both types of the enzyme (type I and II), while finasteride mainly targets just one. That’s why dutasteride can knock down DHT levels even more dramatically.

Minoxidil is a totally different beast. It was originally developed as a blood pressure medication, but doctors noticed an interesting side effect—hair growth! What it does is dilate the blood vessels around your hair follicles, essentially getting more blood and nutrients flowing to them. It also helps keep your hair in the growing phase longer, so you’re getting more time with fuller hair before it naturally sheds.

Causes (Why These Treatments Are Needed)

In hair follicles sensitive to DHT, signaling causes miniaturization—hair becomes finer until it stops growing. 5-ARIs are needed to reduce DHT-driven damage.

Minoxidil is needed because many follicles under stress suffer from poor vascular supply or inflammatory damage; opening vascular supply helps mitigate that.

 

Treatment Options

Finasteride

  • Finasteride competitively inhibits type II 5α-reductase, reducing DHT by about 65-70%. 
  • It slows further hair loss and improves hair growth in men. 
  • Some people who use finasteride have reported sexual side effects — such as a lower sex drive, difficulty getting or maintaining an erection, or changes in ejaculation.

Dutasteride

  • Dutasteride inhibits both type I and II 5α-reductase, achieving greater suppression of DHT. 
  • In comparative research, taking dutasteride 0.5 mg daily was found to be more effective than finasteride 1 mg daily in boosting hair growth and increasing hair count, according to a study published on PubMed Central (PMC) titled “Comparative Efficacy of Minoxidil and 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors.”. 
  • Safety profiles between finasteride and dutasteride are comparable. 

Minoxidil

  • Topical minoxidil (5%) is one of the most effective scientifically approved treatments for hair loss. 
  • It works by opening up potassium channels, which helps relax blood vessels and improve blood flow – allowing more oxygen and nutrients to reach the hair follicles. 
  • Recent research also suggests that taking oral minoxidil in low doses may help boost hair growth and density. 

When to See a Doctor

You should consult a doctor if you notice rapid hair loss, widening part line, or if you have a family history of baldness. Early consultation improves the chance of preserving follicles. Also seek evaluation if side effects like sexual symptoms or scalp irritation occur while on treatment.

StrideRx’s Approach

At StrideRx, our dermatologists and trichologists assess your scalp condition, medical history, and risks before recommending treatments. We emphasize personalized care:

  • Finasteride or dutasteride only after confirming no contraindications 
  • Start minoxidil under supervision to observe tolerance 
  • Monitor patients regularly for side effects and response 
  • Adjust therapy if needed, combining treatments carefully 

Book your teleconsultation today, and let us help you decide the right regimen tailored for your hair pattern and health status.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.

References

Hair Regrowth Treatment

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