Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)

DHT is an androgen, the most potent of the male sex hormones, that is is produced throughout life however in much greater concentrations during fetal development and the period of puberty in males. Unlike testosterone from which it is derived via enzymatic conversion with 5-alpha reductase, DHT does not play a significant role in maintaining male physiology in adulthood. It’s recognized effects in adulthood are largely related to prostate enlargement and male pattern hair loss in genetically susceptible males. It is the primary agent that causes the miniaturization of the hair follicle that leads to hair loss and is the target of the hair loss prevention medications finasteride and dutasteride.