Experiencing Side Effects on Propecia (finasteride) for Hair Loss, but not Avodart (dutasteride)?

This question comes from a member of our [tag]Hair Loss[/tag] Social Community and Discussion Forums: 

Several months ago, I began taking [tag]Propecia[/tag] ([tag]finasteride[/tag]) for my progressive hair loss and experienced significant side effects. After stopping the medication, I switched to [tag]Avodart[/tag] ([tag]dutasteride[/tag]), another medication sometimes indicated in [tag]hair restoration[/tag], and did not experience any adverse side effects. Is there a reason for this? Should I continue taking the Avodart?

Finasteride (the active ingredient in Propecia) works by blocking the [tag]DHT[/tag] ([tag]dihydrotestosterone[/tag] – the hormone responsible for [tag]genetic baldness[/tag]) converting activity of the type II 5-alpha-reductase enzyme. Dutasteride (the active ingredient in Avodart) works by inhibiting the activity of both the type I and type II 5-alpha-reductase enzymes. Although Propecia is shown to be just as effective, I’m not certain that utilizing one medication over the other would produce different side effects, as they are very, very similar drugs.

Regardless, there could be a variety of reasons why the Avodart is working without negative side effects, and if this will help prevent the progression of your hair loss, I think you should confirm and safety and efficacy of the pill with your [tag]hair restoration physician[/tag] and keep utilizing it as a preventive measure. Additionally, keep in mind that Propecia is the only oral medication officially approved for treating progressive hair loss and usually causes side effects in a very small patient population (according to the official studies, less than 3%).

Furthermore, you may want to consider a consistent [tag]minoxidil[/tag] ([tag]Rogaine[/tag]) regimen, as this is a very effective preventive [tag]hair loss mediation[/tag] as well.
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Blake Bloxham – formerly “Future_HT_Doc”

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