Scientific fundamentals of hair loss treatment
General information about dutasteride, finasteride, minoxidil and the evidence behind them. Read more in our guide.
General information
This information helps put the ingredients in context. It does not replace medical advice. Whether an ingredient is suitable for you is reviewed by a licensed physician.
Note: This page contains general information about active ingredients and is not intended as a recommendation for any specific medication or treatment.
DHT inhibition
DHT (dihydrotestosterone) is described in scientific literature as a relevant factor in hereditary hair loss. Certain active ingredients may inhibit the conversion of testosterone to DHT.1
1 Kaufman KD et al. (1998). Finasteride in the treatment of men with androgenetic alopecia. J Am Acad Dermatol. [PubMed]
Blood flow stimulation
Certain active ingredients may promote blood circulation in the scalp. The exact mechanisms are described in the scientific literature.2
2 Olsen EA et al. (2002). A randomized clinical trial of 5% topical minoxidil versus 2% topical minoxidil and placebo in men. J Am Acad Dermatol. [PubMed]
Physician review
Whether treatment is suitable is decided by the physician in each case. Health status, tolerability and personal preferences can all matter.
Evidence-based active ingredients
orva provides information about finasteride, dutasteride and minoxidil for androgenetic alopecia. The scores summarize curated scientific sources. They are a guide, not a recommendation, and do not replace physician review.
Minoxidil→
Mechanism of action: Opens potassium channels in hair cells
Well-studied ingredient for topical use in androgenetic alopecia.
- Topical minoxidil is one of the best-studied ingredients in androgenetic alopecia.
- Effects take time: changes are usually judged only after several months.
- Certain topical products are available without prescription; oral or custom forms belong in physician review.
Finasteride→
Mechanism of action: Inhibits the 5α-reductase enzyme
Established DHT inhibitor in hereditary hair loss.
- Inhibits type II 5-alpha-reductase and can lower DHT formation.
- Evidence is strongest for oral use in men; topical forms have also been clinically studied.
- Prescription-only; sexual, breast, skin or mood symptoms should be discussed with a physician.
Dutasteride→
Mechanism of action: Inhibits both isoforms of the 5α-reductase enzyme
DHT inhibitor studied in androgenetic alopecia.
- Inhibits type I and type II 5-alpha-reductase and therefore lowers DHT more broadly than finasteride.
- Studies show higher hair counts in some patients.
- Prescription-only; risk profile, medication use and family planning belong in physician review.
Compounded by Swiss pharmacies
All medications are compounded and shipped by licensed Swiss pharmacies. The pharmacies are subject to Swissmedic quality standards.
orva does not compound medications. We connect patients with licensed physicians and pharmacies.