How to get finasteride for hair loss?
To start receiving the positive effects of oral finasteride for hair growth, schedule a consultation with an online dermatologist.
Table of Content:
Do you need a prescription to get finasteride? | How to get a finasteride prescription? | What is finasteride? | What is it used for? | How does it work? | Benefits | Side effects | Warning and precautions | Finasteride brand names | How to use finasteride | FAQ
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In this article, we will explain how you can get finasteride for hair loss, the recommended dose for hair loss, if it requires a doctor’s prescription, and the necessary steps you need to take to get it as hair loss treatment.
Understanding the benefits, side effects, and mechanism of action of this and other medications for the treatment of male androgenic alopecia (such as minoxidil and dutasteride) can help you and your online dermatologist make a more informed decision about your treatment options.
Do you need a prescription for finasteride?
Yes. Finasteride is an oral medication that requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare professional and is not available for sale over the counter (OTC).
How can you get a prescription for finasteride and what is the price of the online consultation?
You just need to request a photo-based consultation with a dermatologist via the Miiskin app, and if they think it is appropriate for you, you can pick up your finasteride pills at your local pharmacy.
Downloading and signing up with the Miiskin app is free, but the price of the photo-based consultation depends on each dermatology clinic. You will also need to pay for your medicines at the pharmacy, as you would with a physical consultation.
Request a prescription for finasteride for hair growth.
Get rid of hair loss and request a personal treatment plan from one of our affiliated dermatology providers. Let them know if you have a specific medicine in mind.
What is finasteride used for?
Finasteride is a prescription medication approved by the FDA for the treatment of male androgenetic alopecia (the most common type of hair loss) and benign prostate hyperplasia (enlarged prostate)2.
It is also used off-label for the treatment of hyperandrogenism (a medical condition characterized by abnormally high levels of androgens (male sex hormones) in men and women3. It is taken by mouth every day at the same time, with or without food.
How does finasteride work?
Androgens play a significant role in hair loss, altering the hair cycle development, causing inflammation, and follicular miniaturization4 which is a condition that causes thinner and weaker hair that eventually stops growing5.
This process is caused by a combination of genetic and hormonal factors that affect the hair follicles’ sensitivity to dihydrotestosterone (DHT)6.
Finasteride works by reducing the levels of DHT in the body by approximately 70%. This effect reduces hair loss, stimulates hair growth, and it is used to regulate abnormal prostate growth7.
Common side effects of finasteride
- Erectile dysfunction
- Decreased libido
- Reduction in semen volume
- Gynecomastia (enlarged breasts)11
However, these symptoms tend to disappear once treatment is stopped.
Warning and precautions when using finasteride
This medication is not suitable for women or children. Pregnant women should not handle the tablets, as the active ingredients may be absorbed through the skin and cause birth defects in babies. If a woman does come into contact with the medication, the affected area should be washed immediately with soap and water and consult a doctor.
It is also recommended to have regular follow-up appointments with your online dermatologist to monitor your progress and determine whether the medication is working and if you should continue taking it. It is also possible that before starting treatment, your doctor recommends you have some blood tests, depending on your medical history12.
Brand names of oral finasteride
- Proscar
- Propecia
How to use finasteride?
To ensure the effectiveness of the medication, the tablet should be taken by mouth every day at the same time, with or without food and it is essential to swallow it as a whole.
What is the finasteride dose typically used for hair loss?
The finasteride dose typically used for hair loss is usually 1 mg per day vs 5 mg per day which is the recommended dose for benign prostate hyperplasia. Although it is the same medicine, the doses and the follow up with the doctor are different. That is why it is important to start treatment with a dermatologist.
FAQ about finasteride with Dr. Fernandez
Who can take finasteride?
Men with a diagnosis of androgenetic alopecia, who do not present contraindications, which an evaluation by a dermatologist is necessary.
Who cannot take finasteride?
Women or children and men who are being treated with any other medication containing finasteride or any other 5-alpha reductase enzyme inhibitor for benign prostatic hyperplasia or any other disease. For example if they have some prostatic pathology.
How to get finasteride pills for hair loss?
By having a consultation with an independent online dermatologist, the doctor will evaluate your type of alopecia. If finasteride is suitable for you the doctor will write you a prescription.
Is finasteride available over the counter?
No, you need a doctor’s prescription
How long does an oral finasteride prescription last?
It depends on the legislation in your state but usually prescriptions need to be renewed every three to 12 months.
How long will it take to get a prescription for oral finasteride?
A photo-based consultation usually takes less than three business days to be evaluated.
How/when will I get my finasteride?
You can pick up your finasteride at the pharmacy of your choice after your online dermatologist has reviewed your case and determined if a finasteride prescription is right for you.
How long does it take me to get an answer from a photo-based consultation and get a prescription for finasteride?
On average it will take you less than five minutes to complete your request for a photo-based virtual consultation.
Do I have to pay separately for the photo-based consultation and the finasteride?
Yes, The medication is not included in the consultation, what is included is the prescription.
Request a finasteride prescription for hair growth!
If you are struggling with hair loss and are interested in getting effective treatment start a photo-based consultation now. Our affiliated dermatologists will make a personalized treatment plan. Let them know if you have a specific medicine in mind.
Acne medication comparison
Article References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513329/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12724020/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK278957/ https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/exd.13029
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9951956/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022202X15529357
https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs./finasteride./drg-20063819?p=1
Request a finasteride prescription for hair growth!