Popular 5-alpha reductase inhibitor that lowers DHT, taken as a pill or used topically
5-alpha reductase inhibitor that blocks both enzyme types, a stronger DHT blocker than finasteride
Experimental topical drug designed to break down androgen receptors
a synthetic anti-androgen and weak progestogen that inhibits DHT binding to androgen receptor
Topical anti-androgen sold as a cosmetic lotion
- How is Fluridil different from other DHT blockers like finasteride? Fluridil is a topical androgen-receptor blocker applied to the scalp, while finasteride is an oral 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor that lowers DHT throughout the body. Finasteride is FDA-approved and far better studied; Fluridil rests on one 43-man trial and is not licensed as a hair-loss medicine, so its long-term safety and effect size are unknown.
- Can bicalutamide stop DHT from shrinking your hair follicles? Bicalutamide blocks androgens at the receptor rather than lowering DHT, and some dermatologists prescribe it off-label for women with pattern hair loss, although its US label says it should not be used in women. The one randomised trial (74 women, 2025) found it added no benefit to oral minoxidil, and the drug needs liver monitoring because its label warns of severe and fatal liver injury; it is contraindicated in pregnancy.