That makes sense. But then dutasteride should still obliterate the problem, since dutasteride reduces DHT (at least in normal people who are not me) by up to 98% or something (rough from memory).
Here's a graph of DHT suppression for finasteride 5 mg vs and dutasteride 0.5 mg:
View attachment 67032
The point is, if
@AnxiousAndy had trouble with finasteride because it only suppress DHT by 70%, and his body was able to create enough 5-AR to compensate, then that should be far more impossible with dutasteride.
Andy, I would recommend you give dutasteride a try for at least 4 weeks, then get your DHT levels checked. If they're as low as one would expect, you're probably getting a good response and should stick with it.
If, on the other hand, the problem is that when you suppress your DHT, your body is upregulating androgen receptors, you will need a topical antiandrogen as well to block testosterone from damaging your hair additionally. You could add RU58841 5-7.5% for this as well.
That sucks Andy that hair loss is destroying your life and you had to drop out of school over it. If it is that bad, you should try everything you can to stop it.
I think dutasteride + RU58841 would be a good method with a high likelihood of success in addition to continuing your supplements and oral minoxidil.
As you should know by now, if you don't have a good anti-androgenic regimen you will never win this war in the long run. I hope you consider my suggestion, as it might help you get your life back on track.
Good luck.