The Importance of Dual 5α-Reductase Inhibition in the Treatment of Male Pattern Hair Loss: Results of a Randomized Placebo-Controlled Study of Dutasteride Versus Finasteride

A study from 2006 compared the effectiveness of dutasteride and finasteride, both 5α-reductase inhibitors, in treating male pattern hair loss (MPHL). The study involved 416 men and found that dutasteride was more effective than finasteride in promoting hair growth and reducing hair loss. However, dutasteride also had more side effects than finasteride. The study suggests that dual 5α-reductase inhibition is important in treating MPHL and that dutasteride may be a more effective treatment option than finasteride.