When it comes to tackling hair loss, two names come up often — finasteride and dutasteride. Both target DHT, the hormone behind male pattern baldness, but they’re not the same. Here’s how they stack up for Kiwi men weighing up their options. 

How They Work 

• Finasteride: Blocks one form of the enzyme (type II 5-alpha-reductase) that makes DHT. 

• Dutasteride: Blocks both type I and type II enzymes, leading to a bigger drop in DHT levels overall. 

Effectiveness 

• Finasteride: Proven to slow hair loss and help regrowth for many men. 

• Dutasteride: Often considered stronger, with studies showing greater improvements in density and coverage. 

Side Effects 

• Finasteride: At 1mg daily, most men tolerate it well. A small number may notice reduced libido or semen changes. 

• Dutasteride: Because it lowers DHT more, the chance of side effects can be slightly higher. Some men report similar sexual side effects, though not everyone is affected. 

Availability in NZ 

• Finasteride: Widely prescribed in Aotearoa through GPs and men’s health clinics. 

• Dutasteride: Available, but less commonly prescribed for hair loss. More often used for prostate conditions. Some men access it through private prescriptions or compounding pharmacies. 

Which One Should You Choose? 

• Early hair loss: Finasteride is usually the first-line option.

• More advanced cases: Dutasteride may be considered if finasteride isn’t delivering enough results. 

• Individual response matters: What works well for one man may not for another. 

How Mr. Helps 

At Mr., we talk through both options based on hair goals, health history, and risk tolerance. We prescribe safely, monitor results, and adjust the plan if needed. Whether it’s finasteride, dutasteride, or a combination approach, we take the guesswork out. 

Key Takeaways

• Both medications work by lowering DHT, but dutasteride is stronger. 

• Finasteride is the most common starting point in NZ. 

• Side effects are possible with both, but affect only a small proportion of men. 

• Mr. provides clear advice, safe prescribing, and follow-up so men can choose the right path with confidence.