Propecia Vs. Avodart for Hair Loss

Propecia and Proscar are two brand names for the prescription hair loss medication finasteride. Propecia stimulates hair growth in some men. Avodart is the brand name for dutasteride. Both of these drugs were originally approved and marketed for the treatment of an enlarged prostate gland; however, they are now commonly prescribed to treat hair loss.

Time Frame

• Propecia may stimulate hair growth within three months. According to ongoing studies, Avodart may stimulate hair growth faster than Propecia is some men; however, exact time frames have not yet been determined. Hair growth that occurs as a result of either medication will be lost within a year unless medications are continued.

Function

• Propecia blocks one enzyme that may contribute to hair loss; Avodart blocks two enzymes that may contribute to hair loss.

Considerations

• The Propecia pill may be crushed to make it easier to swallow. The Avodart pill should be swallowed whole.

FDA Approval

• Propecia has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for hair loss treatment; however, Avodart has yet to be officially approved by the FDA for the treatment of male pattern baldness.

Side Effects

• Side effects of both medications may include sexual side effects such as impotence, decrease sex drive and a smaller amount of semen in ejaculation. Propecia, specifically, may also cause stomach pain, diarrhea, dizziness and headache. Contact your physician if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction such as facial swelling or rash. Also, consult your physician if you notice breast enlargement or discharge from the breasts.

Warning

• Women should not touch an Avodart or Propecia pill because they can cause birth defects in fetuses. Men should wait at least six months after discontinuing medication before donating blood; the medication could be hazardous if passed on to a pregnant woman through a blood transfusion.