Get a prescription for the most effective DHT Blocker
- Request your prescription.
- Consultation for new patients is $59 and $39 for med refills.
- Response within two business days.
*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
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?
Oral finasteride
Oral dutasteride
Topical finasteride + minoxidil
Topical dutasteride + minoxidil
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.
How can I get a DHT blocker prescription?
Do you need a prescription to get a DHT blocker?
Oral and topical finasteride are both prescription-grade medications, therefore you need to have a consultation with a healthcare professional in order to get it for hair loss.
How can you get a prescription for a DHT blocker?
You can have a photo-based consultation via Miiskin. The doctor may write a prescription for finasteride or dutasteride if they believe it is safe and adequate for you. You can then pick it up from any pharmacy.
How long will it take to get a prescription for a DHT blocker?
A photo-consultation via Miiskin usually takes 2 business days to be evaluated and the price starts at $59. You also need to pay for your prescription separately.
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.
Interested in getting a finasteride prescription for your hair loss?References:
1https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK555930/
2https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/finasteride-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20063819