Topical Finasteride
Finasteride applied to the scalp rather than swallowed.
This is a prescription medication. You complete a medical questionnaire and a licensed clinician reviews it before anything is prescribed or dispensed. Not everyone is eligible.
Choosing a plan takes you to our pharmacy to complete the medical questionnaire
Questions about Topical Finasteride
What is Finasteride?
Finasteride 1mg is an oral tablet, prescription medicine that is FDA approved to treat male pattern baldness. At a higher strength of 5mg, Finasteride is FDA approved to treat BPH (Benign prostatic hyperplasia).
How does Finasteride work?
Finasteride belongs to a group of drugs called 5-alpha reductase inhibitors. It works by blocking the conversion of Testosterone to DHT by up to 70% and therefore lowers DHT levels in the body and at the scalp. Lowering DHT will allow your hair to start the process of growing back.
What can I expect with Finasteride treatment?
Results will begin appearing after 3-4 months but significant results may not be apparent for 6-9 months after starting the medication. Full results are usually seen approximately 1 year after starting treatment with Finasteride and using the medication on a daily basis. Patients who skip treatment days, weeks, or months may find that the medication does not work as effectively and does not produce the results they were expecting.
How to take Finasteride?
Finasteride comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day with or without food. Take Finasteride at around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully. Take Finasteride exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Safety information
Before using finasteride and each time you get a refill, please review the following important safety details. This information may be updated. It does not replace discussing your health conditions or treatment plan with your medical provider.
FDA-Approved Uses of Finasteride
Oral Finasteride
Finasteride 1 mg is FDA-approved for the treatment of male pattern hair loss. Finasteride 5 mg is FDA-approved for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Topical and compounded forms of finasteride are considered off-label.
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking Finasteride?
Please inform your clinician if any of the following apply:
Hormonal or Reproductive History
- History of infertility
- Actively trying to conceive
- History of hormone-related conditions
Mental Health History
- History of depression
- History of anxiety disorders
- Prior mood-related side effects from medications
Liver Conditions
- Any history of liver disease
- Any abnormal liver function tests
Other Health Considerations
- Allergy or sensitivity to finasteride
- Use of other hormone-modifying medications
Who Should Not Use Finasteride?
You should not use finasteride if you:
- Have ever had an allergic reaction to finasteride
- Are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breastfeeding
- Are a child
- Have known hypersensitivity to 5-alpha reductase inhibitors
Pregnancy Warning
Finasteride can cause abnormalities in a male fetus. Pregnant individuals should not handle crushed or broken finasteride tablets.
Possible Side Effects of Finasteride
Common or Mild Side Effects
- Reduced libido
- Changes in ejaculation
- Erectile difficulty
- Mild fatigue
Less Common but More Serious Side Effects
- Breast tenderness or enlargement
- Testicular discomfort
- Mood changes, including depression
- Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, itching)
This list does not include all potential side effects, medication interactions, or clinical data. Always notify your clinician and or pharmacist of any side effects you experience.
Mental Health Advisory
Some patients report mood-related side effects while using finasteride. If you experience new or worsening depression, anxiety, or mood changes, contact your clinician immediately.
Fertility Considerations
Finasteride may affect semen parameters in a small percentage of patients. These effects are typically reversible after discontinuation. If you have concerns regarding fertility, discuss them with your clinician before starting treatment.
Learn More About Finasteride
A detailed scientific review of finasteride can be found here: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3481923/
Additional prescriber information: https://www.pdr.net/drug-summary/Propecia-finasteride-1678
Emergency Situations
If you experience symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, fainting, swelling of the face or throat, or severe mood changes, call 911 or seek immediate emergency medical care.
You can report negative side effects to the FDA at: www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088
Additional safety information
* Finasteride is FDA-approved for the treatment of male pattern hair loss. It must be prescribed following an online medical evaluation, and individual results may vary.