Dutasteride: What it Does and Who Might Need It

Dutasteride is a pill that blocks 5-alpha reductase, the enzyme that turns testosterone into DHT. That matters because DHT shrinks the prostate and drives male-pattern hair loss. Doctors prescribe dutasteride mainly for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Some people and clinicians also use it off-label for hair loss because it's more potent than finasteride.

Common dose and what to expect

The usual dose is 0.5 mg once daily. Don’t expect overnight change: for prostate symptoms and hair growth, most people see improvement after 3–6 months, and the full effect can take a year. If you stop the drug, benefits usually fade over months. Keep taking it long term only if your doctor recommends it.

One specific point: dutasteride lowers PSA levels. If you get prostate screening, tell your provider you take dutasteride—your PSA may drop roughly 50% after a few months, and doctors adjust interpretation accordingly.

Side effects, risks, and safety tips

Sexual side effects are the most reported: lower libido, erectile problems, and changes in ejaculation. Those effects often improve after stopping the drug but can persist in a minority of people. Some users report breast tenderness or enlargement; any new breast changes should get medical review.

Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not handle broken or crushed capsules—dutasteride can harm a male fetus. Use reliable contraception if you or your partner need it and follow your prescriber's instructions.

Dutasteride is processed by liver enzymes (CYP3A4). If you take strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers, mention that to your clinician—your drug level may change. Also list all prescription and herbal medicines to avoid interactions or surprises.

Before starting, clinicians usually check your medical history and may order a baseline PSA and prostate exam. Follow-up visits help monitor symptom relief and side effects. If you notice sudden breast changes, allergic reactions, or mood shifts, contact your provider promptly.

Thinking about dutasteride for hair loss? It can work better than finasteride for some men, but it’s not approved for hair loss in every country. Ask a dermatologist about the trade-offs and whether topical or systemic therapy fits your goals.

Buying tips: only use licensed pharmacies and get a prescription from a qualified clinician. Online offers that skip prescriptions are risky—counterfeit or low-quality medicines are common. Check pharmacy reviews, look for verified contact details, and avoid sellers that won’t provide batch or manufacturer info.

If you have more questions about dosing, monitoring, or how dutasteride fits your treatment plan, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. They’ll help match the benefits and risks to your health goals.