Request a prescription for the most effective DHT Blocker
Response time: 1-2 working days
- Board-certified dermatologists
- Available in all 50 states
- Free choice of pharmacy
*Your medication requests undergo review by an independent, board-certified dermatologist to ensure they are suitable for your skin condition. The cost of the medication is not included.
What is a DHT blocker and how do they work?
DHT blockers are substances that inhibit the action of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that is linked to hair loss in conditions like androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness). DHT blockers inhibit the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, minimizing DHT levels in the scalp and reducing hair follicle shrinkage and the associated hair loss.1
A seamless teledermatology + pharmacy experience
Miiskin has now partnered with Foothills Pharmacy, a leading compounding pharmacy, to make prescription skin care effortless.
Now, when your dermatologist prescribes treatment via Miiskin, you can choose Foothills as your pharmacy and order your medication via the Miiskin platform. They will send a payment link and after payment is completed, your medication will be delivered for free shipping.
Oral hair loss medications from Foothills typically cost between $24.99 – $38.99, based on the pill count your clinician prescribes (30, 60, 90, or 120 pills).
Important Disclaimer: Compounded medications are not reviewed by the FDA for safety or efficacy.
How can I get a DHT blocker prescription?
Do you need a prescription to get a DHT blocker?
Finasteride and dutasteride are both prescription-grade medications, therefore you need to have a consultation with a healthcare professional.
How to get a prescription for a DHT blocker?
You can have an online consultation via Miiskin. The doctor may write a prescription for finasteride or dutasteride if they believe it is safe and adequate for you. Consultation price is $59 for new patients, and $39 for prescription renewals.
How much do DHT blockers cost?
Your dermatologist can prescribe your medication to any pharmacy your prefer, and the price of medication will vary depending on your state and the pharmacy your choose.
Through Miiskin, you can choose Foothills Pharmacy as your preferred pharmacy and place your order directly once your prescription is issued.
Oral medications from Foothills typically cost between $24.99 – $38.99, based on the pill count your clinician prescribes (30, 60, 90, or 120 pills). This price includes free delivery.
What is DHT?
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a hormone that evolves from testosterone, a major androgen responsible for developing male traits. Produced by an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase, this transformation of testosterone into DHT happens in various body tissues, including the skin, liver, and prostate.
DHT plays a vital role in male sexual development from fetal stages through adulthood, aiding in the differentiation of sexual organs and contributing to characteristics like facial and body hair growth, as well as prostate enlargement. It also supports libido and muscle mass maintenance in adults.
However, DHT is linked to several health issues, such as androgenetic alopecia (commonly known as male pattern baldness) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). To combat these conditions, medications like finasteride and dutasteride are employed to inhibit DHT production by blocking the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme, effectively reducing DHT levels.
What prescription DHT blockers can I get?
Via Miiskin you can request a prescription for oral finasteride or dutasteride, two medications that work by reducing levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the hormone strongly linked to hair loss and prostate enlargement. While both drugs can be highly effective, they carry similar potential side effects, including sexual dysfunction, mood changes, and reduced fertility, making medical supervision important.
Finasteride is FDA-approved for both male pattern hair loss and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Dutasteride (which is stronger) is only FDA-approved for BPH, though it is often prescribed off-label for hair loss.
Oral finasteride
Oral dutasteride
Possible ingredients in compounded topical prescriptions
In some cases, your dermatologist may determine that a compounded topical prescription is appropriate, based on your individual needs. These formulations may include ingredients such as finasteride, dutasteride, or minoxidil, prepared by a licensed compounding pharmacy. Suitability and specific combinations are determined by your provider during consultation.
Topical finasteride + minoxidil
Topical dutasteride + minoxidil
Disclaimer: Compounded medications are not reviewed or approved by the FDA for safety or efficacy. Effectiveness and safety have not been established by the FDA. Suitability varies based on individual consultation.
Benefits of getting a prescription-strength DHT Blocker
Reduction in hair loss
Finasteride is primarily used to slow down or stop hair loss by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone to DHT, the hormone responsible for hair follicle shrinkage.
Increase in hair regrowth
Finasteride can also promote new hair growth but this can vary significantly from person to person, but most users report an increase in hair density over time.
Maintenance of existing hair
By lowering scalp levels of DHT, finasteride helps to maintain existing hair by prolonging the growth phase of the hair cycle and preventing further follicular miniaturization.
Improved self-esteem
Hair loss can be a significant source of stress and anxiety for many people. Managing hair loss can improve self-esteem and overall quality of life.
Getting DHT blocker is very simple with Miiskin
- Select “Start your consultation” to sign-up with Miiskin.
- Use the consultation form to request DHT blocker.
- If medically appropriate, you will receive a prescription from a dermatologist.
- Pick up your DHT blocker at the pharmacy of your choice.
Side-effects of a prescription-strength DHT blocker
- Sexual side-effects: These are some of the most commonly reported issues, including decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and ejaculation disorders. These effects occur in a minority of patients but can be significant and sometimes persist after stopping the medication.
- Psychological effects: There have been reports of depression and anxiety in users taking finasteride, which should be monitored closely.
- Hormonal changes: Finasteride reduces DHT levels, which can lead to a decrease in certain masculine physical characteristics or changes in the way the body metabolizes hormones.
- Effect on fertility: Some studies have noted a potential impact on sperm parameters, but these effects are generally reversible after discontinuation of the drug2.
Who can take prescription DHT blockers for hair growth?
Finasteride is primarily prescribed for adult men with androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness), particularly effective for those with mild to moderate hair loss. It helps prevent further hair loss and encourages hair regrowth. Continuous use is necessary to maintain benefits, and stopping the medication will likely result in the loss of any hair gained during treatment. It’s crucial for men considering finasteride to consult with a healthcare provider to evaluate if it’s suitable based on their health condition and to discuss potential side effects. Women, especially pregnant ones, should avoid finasteride due to the risk of birth defects in male fetuses.
Who cannot take prescription DHT blockers (finasteride) for hair growth?
- Women and children: Finasteride is not approved for use in women and children. The drug can cause birth defects if a woman is exposed to it during pregnancy. Additionally, finasteride has not been shown to be safe or effective in children.
- Patients allergic to finasteride: Anyone who has a known allergy to finasteride or any of its components should avoid taking it. Allergic reactions can include rash, itching, hives, and swelling of the lips or face.
- Patients with liver disease: Those with liver function impairments should use finasteride with caution, as it is metabolized in the liver and could potentially lead to increased side effects or reduced clearance of the drug from the body.
- Those at risk of prostate cancer: Men considering finasteride for the treatment of BPH should be evaluated for prostate cancer before starting and during treatment, as finasteride can alter PSA levels, which are used to screen for prostate cancer.
- Men taking medications similar to finasteride: such as dutasteride, should be aware of potential interactions and compound effects, especially concerning side effects associated with these types of drugs.
Provider & Prescription Information
Miiskin connects patients with independent dermatologists who provide care through their private practices. Compounded prescriptions can be ordered via Miiskin and are dispensed by Foothills pharmacy. Standard medications can be issued for any local pharmacy.
Interested in getting DHT blocker?
Consult a dermatologist →
References:
1https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK555930/
2https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/finasteride-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20063819
