Finasteride Online
Brand names: Propecia, Proscar
Finasteride is the most widely prescribed oral medication for male pattern hair loss. It works by blocking DHT, the hormone primarily responsible for shrinking hair follicles. FDA-approved since 1997, it has decades of safety data and is considered the gold standard for hair retention.
How Finasteride Works
Finasteride inhibits the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into DHT (dihydrotestosterone). DHT is the main driver of androgenetic hair loss — it causes genetically susceptible hair follicles to miniaturize and eventually stop producing visible hair. By reducing DHT levels by about 70%, finasteride slows or halts further hair loss in most men and can produce regrowth in some.
What to Expect
Hair loss typically stops within 3-6 months. Visible regrowth, if it occurs, usually takes 6-12 months. Finasteride is most effective at maintaining existing hair rather than regrowing lost hair. It must be taken continuously — stopping will reverse gains within 6-12 months.
Finasteride Pricing Comparison
Sorted by lowest starting price.
Prices shown are based on our most recent research and may not reflect current pricing. Telehealth providers update their pricing frequently. Always verify pricing directly with the provider before purchasing.
| Provider | Score | Product | Price/mo | Includes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LifeMD | 68 | Finasteride (via Rex MD) | $14–$27 | ● Consults● Shipping○ Labs | Visit |
| Ro | 77 | Finasteride | $16–$20 | ● Consults● Shipping○ Labs | Visit |
| Keeps | 71 | Finasteride | $20–$35 First month $5 | ● Consults● Shipping○ Labs | Visit |
| Hims & Hers | 78 | Finasteride | $22–$29 | ● Consults● Shipping○ Labs | Visit |
| Happy Head | 75 | Oral Finasteride | $24 | ● Consults● Shipping○ Labs | Visit |
| SuperCapsule (Finasteride + Minoxidil + Vit D3) | $63–$79 | ● Consults● Shipping○ Labs | |||
| TopicalRx Finasteride & Minoxidil | $63–$79 | ● Consults● Shipping○ Labs | |||
| Eden | 64 | Hair Growth (Finasteride) | $59 | ● Consults● Shipping○ Labs | Visit |
Common Side Effects
- •Decreased libido (reported in 1-2% of users in clinical trials)
- •Erectile dysfunction (reported in ~1% of users)
- •Decreased ejaculate volume
- •Breast tenderness (rare)
Serious Side Effects
- !Persistent sexual side effects after discontinuation (rare, debated)
- !Depression or mood changes (rare, reported anecdotally)
- !Allergic reactions (very rare)
Finasteride Is Not For
- ✗Women (especially pregnant women — can cause birth defects in male fetuses)
- ✗Children
- ✗People with liver disease
Finasteride — Frequently Asked Questions
Is finasteride safe for long-term use?
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Finasteride has been FDA-approved since 1997, and long-term studies spanning 10+ years have not identified new safety concerns. The majority of men tolerate it well. Side effects, when they occur, typically resolve after discontinuation.
What is the difference between oral and topical finasteride?
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Oral finasteride (1mg/day) is the FDA-approved form with the most clinical evidence. Topical finasteride is applied directly to the scalp and may reduce systemic side effects by limiting how much enters the bloodstream. Some telehealth brands offer topical formulations, often combined with minoxidil.
How much does finasteride cost through telehealth?
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Generic finasteride through telehealth typically costs $15-44/month depending on the provider. This usually includes the physician consultation and shipping.
Can women take finasteride for hair loss?
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Finasteride is generally not prescribed to women, especially those of childbearing age, as it can cause birth defects. Some dermatologists prescribe it off-label to post-menopausal women, but this should only be done under direct medical supervision.
Medical disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice.Finasteride requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Side effects, risks, and suitability vary by individual. Always consult your doctor before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. TelehealthMatch is not a healthcare provider.
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