From the FDA Drug Label
Dutasteride capsules are a 5 alpha-reductase inhibitor indicated for the treatment of symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men with an enlarged prostate to: (1. 1) improve symptoms, reduce the risk of acute urinary retention, and reduce the risk of the need for BPH-related surgery.
Contraindications: Pregnancy. Dutasteride use is contraindicated in women who are pregnant.
Male and Female Patients: Dutasteride is contraindicated in pregnancy and is not indicated for use in women [see Contraindications (4), Warnings and Precautions (5. 1)].
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Dutasteride 0.5 mg capsules are not FDA-approved for use in female patients, but they may be prescribed off-label for women with androgenetic alopecia (female pattern hair loss) or hirsutism (excessive hair growth) that has not responded to other treatments, as supported by a recent review 1. The primary indication for dutasteride is for men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) to improve symptoms and reduce the risk of urinary retention and prostate surgery. However, when used off-label in women, dutasteride works by inhibiting 5-alpha reductase enzymes, which convert testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to hair loss on the scalp and excessive hair growth elsewhere on the body. Some key points to consider when prescribing dutasteride to female patients include:
- Dutasteride is absolutely contraindicated in women who are pregnant or may become pregnant, as it can cause abnormalities in the external genitalia of male fetuses, as noted in various studies 2, 3, 4.
- Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 months after the last dose.
- Side effects may include decreased libido, headache, and breast tenderness.
- Due to limited research on its use in women, dutasteride should only be considered after thorough discussion of risks and benefits with a healthcare provider, with consideration of the most recent evidence 1. It's also important to note that dutasteride has been shown to be effective in treating androgenetic alopecia in men, with some studies suggesting it may be more effective than finasteride 2, 3. However, more research is needed to fully understand the efficacy and safety of dutasteride in female patients. In terms of specific administration methods, oral dutasteride has been shown to be effective in treating androgenetic alopecia, but mesotherapy with dutasteride and microneedling combined with dutasteride solution may also be effective in reducing adverse events caused by oral medication 1. Overall, while dutasteride may be a useful treatment option for female patients with androgenetic alopecia or hirsutism, it should be used with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.