Effectiveness
Spironolactone: Can reduce hair shedding and promote hair regrowth in women experiencing female pattern hair loss or hair loss due to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome ("PCOS").Research shows that 40-60% of women see improvements in hair density or a reduction in shedding after 3-6 months.
It is more effective for women due to its ability to reduce the effects of high androgen levels
Flutamide: Can help reduce hair loss and increase hair regrowth in women, especially those with androgen excess. Research shows improvement in hair density and reduced hair shedding within 3-6 months. While less common, it is sometimes used for women with PCOS or other causes of high androgen levels.
Usage
Take pill once daily.
Combining with other treatments (e.g., minoxidil) or monitoring (blood tests) can increase expenses.
Cost
Spironolactone: ~$10–$30/month (generic). Affordable and widely used, often covered by insurance.
Flutamide: ~$100–$200/month. Less common due to higher costs and potential side effects.
***The cost of any medication often depends on the pharmacy, location, discounts, or insurance coverage.
Potential Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
Spironolactone users may experience (1) Frequent urination (diuretic effect); (2) Fatigue, dizziness, or low blood pressure; (3) Irregular menstrual cycles; (4) Breast tenderness or enlargement (gynecomastia, more common in men); (5) Reduced libido.
Users may also experience hormonal & electrolyte-related risks: (1) High potassium levels (Hyperkalemia), which can cause heart rhythm issues;(2) Decreased testosterone levels, which can lead to feminizing effects in men; (3) Mood changes, depression, or brain fog.
Flutamide users may experience (1) Liver toxicity (most concerning risk, requires regular liver function monitoring); (2) Gastrointestinal issues (nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain); (3) Hot flashes (due to testosterone suppression); (4) Fatigue & dizziness; (5) Breast enlargement (gynecomastia in men, breast tenderness in women); (6) Reduced libido & erectile dysfunction (in men).
Rare, but Serious, Side Effects:
Spironolactone users may experience (1) Severe electrolyte imbalances (monitor potassium levels); (2) Allergic reactions (rash, swelling); (3) Increased breast cancer risk (debated, but not strongly proven).
Flutamide users may experience (1) Severe liver damage (hepatotoxicity), which can lead to liver failure if not monitored; (2) Blood disorders (anemia, reduced white blood cells); (3) Decreased sperm production & infertility in men.
Effectiveness
Spironolactone: Can reduce hair shedding and promote hair regrowth in women experiencing female pattern hair loss or hair loss due to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome ("PCOS").Research shows that 40-60% of women see improvements in hair density or a reduction in shedding after 3-6 months.
It is more effective for women due to its ability to reduce the effects of high androgen levels
Flutamide: Can help reduce hair loss and increase hair regrowth in women, especially those with androgen excess. Research shows improvement in hair density and reduced hair shedding within 3-6 months. While less common, it is sometimes used for women with PCOS or other causes of high androgen levels.
Usage
Take pill once daily.
Combining with other treatments (e.g., minoxidil) or monitoring (blood tests) can increase expenses.
Cost
Spironolactone: ~$10–$30/month (generic). Affordable and widely used, often covered by insurance.
Flutamide: ~$100–$200/month. Less common due to higher costs and potential side effects.
***The cost of any medication often depends on the pharmacy, location, discounts, or insurance coverage.
Potential Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
Spironolactone users may experience (1) Frequent urination (diuretic effect); (2) Fatigue, dizziness, or low blood pressure; (3) Irregular menstrual cycles; (4) Breast tenderness or enlargement (gynecomastia, more common in men); (5) Reduced libido.
Users may also experience hormonal & electrolyte-related risks: (1) High potassium levels (Hyperkalemia), which can cause heart rhythm issues;(2) Decreased testosterone levels, which can lead to feminizing effects in men; (3) Mood changes, depression, or brain fog.
Flutamide users may experience (1) Liver toxicity (most concerning risk, requires regular liver function monitoring); (2) Gastrointestinal issues (nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain); (3) Hot flashes (due to testosterone suppression); (4) Fatigue & dizziness; (5) Breast enlargement (gynecomastia in men, breast tenderness in women); (6) Reduced libido & erectile dysfunction (in men).
Rare, but Serious, Side Effects:
Spironolactone users may experience (1) Severe electrolyte imbalances (monitor potassium levels); (2) Allergic reactions (rash, swelling); (3) Increased breast cancer risk (debated, but not strongly proven).
Flutamide users may experience (1) Severe liver damage (hepatotoxicity), which can lead to liver failure if not monitored; (2) Blood disorders (anemia, reduced white blood cells); (3) Decreased sperm production & infertility in men.