Dutasteride (Avodart)
Dutasteride, or otherwise known as Avodart is a 0.5mg soft capsule that is actually licesed for use in benign prostate hyperplasia.
It does however indirectly help with male pattern baldness.
This drug treatment is only suitable for men.
How does it work?
Dutasteride works in the same way Propecia does. Dutasteride inhibits both Type I and Type II 5-alpha reductase enzymes responsible for the conversion of testosterone to DHT in doing so it reduces the level of DHT in the scalp which can shorten the hair growth cycle and allows hairs to revert back to a normal growth cycle.
How often do I take it?
Dutasteride capusules are taken once daily. Continual usage for 3-6 months is crucial before results start to show.
Are there any side effects?
Dutasteride is very well tolerated in men, however a small proportion of patients do suffer some side effects. These can include headaches, allergic reaction, impotency and decrease in libido. These are however, often temporary and resolve when medication is stopped. Official figures show that only 2% of men experience any side effects.
