Dr. Parvin Shafa | December 13, 2022
Dutasteride mesotherapy is a treatment option for androgenic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern hair loss.
What is dutasteride?
Dutasteride is a medication used for hair loss. Its mechanism of action is inhibition of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which ultimately decreases the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. Dihydrotestosterone (also known as DHT) is the main culprit for male and female pattern hair loss, therefore, decreasing levels of DHT at the hair follicle helps prevent hair loss.
What is the difference between dutasteride and finasteride (propecia)?
Dutasteride and finasteride have the same mechanism of action of inhibiting 5-alpha reductase, except that dutasteride blocks both type 1 and type 2 5-alpha reductase whereas finasteride blocks only type 2 5-alpha reductase. Therefore, dutasteride has increased DHT blocking capability compared to finasteride.
Why is oral dutasteride not used as commonly as finasteride (propecia) for hair loss?
Studies have shown that oral dutasteride has significantly better results for hair loss prevention than finasteride but it is not as commonly used because of its potential side effects. The side effect that is of most concern for people is sexual dysfunction or decreased libido. The cause of this side effect is likely due to DHT receptors in the testes that become exposed to these medications.
Why is dutasteride mesotherapy a desired treatment option for hair loss?
Dutasteride mesotherapy is an exciting new treatment for hair loss because of its delivery method. Instead of taking the medication by mouth, a sterile formulation of the medication is injected to the scalp directly at the level of the hair follicle. This allows the medication to target DHT receptors within the hair follicles and also prevents the medication from being in the bloodstream and targeting undesired areas. To summarize, the medication is injected and stays in the scalp as opposed to being in your bloodstream and causing potential sexual side effects.
Does dutasteride mesotherapy work for hair loss?
There are numerous new studies that have been published showing significant improvement in hair density after dutasteride mesotherapy.
Does the treatment hurt?
The scalp is a very sensitive area in general but injections of this medication are usually well tolerated. Your dermatologists will provide you with proper alleviating techniques to help minimize pain.
How many treatments are necessary?
There is no clear consensus in the literature of proper frequency of injections. Many of the studies that have shown promising results when performing 1 injection per month x 3 months, followed by maintenance therapy. Treatment frequency also varies depending on starting point, expectations, and other patient factors. Consultation with your dermatologist is recommended.
We offer medical visits for hair loss consultations or complimentary visits for dutasteride mesotherapy consultation. If you are unhappy or bothered by your hair thinning, feel free to call us to make an appointment for a consultation. Feel free to ask questions.
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