What Happens If I Stop Taking Dutasteride for Hair Loss?
BY TRYBELLO
May 8, 2025

Key Takeaways
- Stopping dutasteride typically leads to a gradual return of hair loss within 3–6 months as DHT levels normalize in the body.
- Side effects experienced while taking dutasteride, such as decreased libido and erectile dysfunction, often improve after discontinuation.
- Consulting with a healthcare provider before stopping dutasteride is essential for personalized guidance based on your medical history and current health status.
- Alternative treatments and lifestyle changes can help maintain hair health.
- Trybello Hair Helper Spray is a natural alternative with castor oil, biotin, and caffeine that promotes thicker, fuller hair growth without hormonal side effects.
What Happens When You Stop Dutasteride?
When you stop taking dutasteride, several changes may occur in your body, particularly concerning hair growth. This medication is primarily used to manage male pattern baldness by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) a hormone that contributes significantly to hair loss.
Once you discontinue the medication, DHT levels gradually return to their normal state, potentially leading to the resumption of hair loss. The timeline for these changes can vary among individuals, but typically, hair shedding may begin within a few weeks to months.
Expected Outcomes
For many, the return of hair loss is the most noticeable outcome. If dutasteride was effective for you, expect to see a gradual reversal of its benefits. Besides that, you might also notice an improvement in any side effects you experienced while on the medication, such as reduced libido or erectile dysfunction.
Timeline of Changes
The timeline for changes after stopping dutasteride is not set in stone. Generally, DHT levels normalize within a few weeks, but the visible effects on hair can take longer. Hair shedding often becomes apparent within 3 to 6 months after discontinuation.
By understanding these potential changes, you can better prepare for what lies ahead and try out alternative options to maintain your hair health.
“Doctor-Approved Natural Spray Rapidly Boosts Growth & Thickness.
Why 100,000+ Women Are Switching to The TryBello All-Natural Solution!"
Join over 100,000 happy customers who’ve transformed their hair with our natural, doctor-formulated spray—rated 4.8/5 by more than 40,000 real users.
Proven Natural Ingredients
- • Caffeine Extract – Naturally blocks DHT and boosts blood flow to hair follicles
- • Biotin – Absorbs directly through the scalp for maximum results—no pills needed
- • Castor Oil – Soothes inflammation and locks in deep, lasting moisture
- • Rice Water Extract – Packed with proteins and minerals to strengthen hair and reduce shedding
Get Visible Results in 12 Weeks
- • Up to 45% increase in hair thickness
- • Reduces shedding and unclogs hair-draining nightmares
- • Supports regrowth in thinning areas
- • Leaves hair soft, shiny, and full of life
Ironclad 120-Day Growth Guarantee
No results after 4 months? Get 100% of your money back—no questions asked.


★★★★★
I started using this twice a day because I noticed my hairline receding. Didn’t pay attention to track results, now my stylist told me my hair has grown a lot since my last root touch up. I'm impressed! - Bailey

Why Dutasteride Influences Hair Growth

To fully grasp why stopping dutasteride affects your hair, understand how the medication works and its role in hair growth.
Role of DHT
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a derivative of testosterone and plays a critical role in hair loss, particularly in those with a genetic predisposition to male pattern baldness. DHT binds to receptors in hair follicles, causing them to shrink and eventually stop producing hair.
How Dutasteride Works
Dutasteride is a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor, which means it blocks the enzyme responsible for converting testosterone into DHT. By reducing DHT levels, dutasteride helps to prevent the miniaturization of hair follicles, thus maintaining hair growth.
Managing Side Effects
Common Side Effects Upon Discontinuation
When you stop taking dutasteride, you may notice some changes in how your body feels. For many, the reduction or disappearance of side effects experienced during the medication's use is a relief. Common side effects such as decreased libido or erectile dysfunction often lessen or resolve after discontinuation.
However, be aware that not everyone experiences these side effects. The experience can be quite individual, and some might not notice significant changes. If you have concerns about side effects persisting or new ones arising, seek medical advice.
Consult with a Doctor
Before making any decisions about stopping dutasteride, consulting with your doctor is essential. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status. This can help you understand the potential impacts of discontinuation and try alternative treatments if needed.
Your doctor might suggest a gradual reduction in dosage rather than an abrupt stop, depending on your situation. This approach can help your body adjust and minimize any adverse reactions.
Alternatives to Dutasteride
Other Medications
Several medications that can help manage hair loss are available. For example, finasteride is a popular alternative that also works by reducing DHT levels. While it may not be as potent as dutasteride, it can still be effective for many individuals.
Topical treatments like minoxidil are another option. Applied directly to the scalp, minoxidil can stimulate hair growth and slow hair loss without the systemic effects of oral medications. These alternatives can be used alone or in combination, depending on your specific needs and doctor's recommendations.
Lifestyle Changes

Beyond medication, lifestyle changes can play a significant role in supporting hair health.
A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly those known to support hair growth, can make a difference. Consider incorporating foods high in biotin, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids into your diet.
Regular exercise is also beneficial, as it promotes overall health and improves circulation, which can enhance hair growth. Additionally, managing stress through techniques like meditation or yoga can positively impact your hair's health, since stress is a known factor in hair loss.
Hair Care Tips
Gentle handling of your hair can prevent breakage and damage. Use a wide-toothed comb to detangle, and avoid excessive heat styling, which can weaken hair strands.
Choose hair care products that are free from harsh chemicals and sulfates. Look for shampoos and conditioners that are specifically formulated to support hair health. Regularly massaging your scalp can also stimulate blood flow and promote healthy hair growth.
Sustainable Hair Health Strategies
Consistent Maintenance
Regularly sticking to your hair care routine ensures that your hair remains in optimal condition. This includes washing and conditioning your hair as needed, using products for your hair type, and protecting your hair from environmental damage.
Effective Hair Regimens
Developing a personalized hair regimen can help you address specific concerns and goals. This might involve a combination of treatments, dietary adjustments, and stress management techniques. Work with your healthcare provider to create a plan that aligns with your needs and supports your hair health journey.
Supportive Supplements
In addition to lifestyle changes and alternative treatments, certain supplements can support hair health. Biotin, often called vitamin H, is known to strengthen hair and nails. Taking a daily biotin supplement can help improve hair strength and reduce breakage.
Zinc is another essential mineral that supports hair growth. It helps maintain the health of hair follicles and regulates the production of oils that protect the scalp. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil supplements, can also nourish hair, providing essential nutrients that promote shine and elasticity.
Your Natural Path Forward: Trybello's Alternative to Dutasteride
Discontinuing dutasteride can be a significant decision, and understanding what to expect helps manage this transition. While the return of hair loss is a possibility, focus more broadly on your hair health and look for alternatives that suit you.

Trybello Hair Helper Spray is a hormone-free alternative for those seeking natural hair growth solutions.
Our Hair Helper Spray has key ingredients like biotin (proven effective in peer-reviewed studies), caffeine (which promotes hair growth from the root), and castor oil (increases blood circulation to hair follicles) that address the fundamental causes of hair thinning without the side effects associated with DHT-blocking medications.
Simply spray directly onto the scalp daily, work it in with your fingertips, and let the spray deliver its natural formula directly to your hair follicles. For optimal results, we recommend applying the spray consistently over 120 days.
Maintaining healthy hair doesn't end with a single treatment—consistency leads to lasting results.
TRY YOUR BELLO HAIR HELPER SPRAY NOW →
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Trending Topics

See our latests posts #TRYBELLO