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Finasteride
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Finasteride is an MHRA-approved oral tablet specifically designed to treat male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia) by using its active ingredient to block DHT, the hormone responsible for hair follicle shrinkage.
- Clinically shown to stop hair loss in 90% of men
- A simple once-a-day tablet that fits easily into your routine
- High-quality, affordable generic alternative to Propecia
- Prescribed by UK clinicians and dispensed from our registered pharmacy
More information
Finasteride 1mg is the gold-standard oral treatment for men suffering from androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male pattern hair loss. By significantly lowering scalp levels of dihydrotestosterone, it addresses the biological root cause of thinning at the crown and receding hair lines. Most patients begin to see a visible stabilisation of their hair count within three to six months of consistent daily use, making it a highly effective preventative and restorative option. — Rachael Clarke MRCPharm MFRPSI FRSPH (GPHC Number: 2061366)
You can buy Finasteride online safely through our streamlined consultation process which includes a free medical assessment and discreet UK home delivery. To start, you simply complete a short health questionnaire. This is then reviewed by one of our registered UK prescribers to ensure the treatment is suitable for you. Once approved, your order is dispensed and shipped directly from our pharmacy (GPHC Number: 9011560) in plain, unbranded packaging to maintain your privacy.
The cost of Finasteride tablets is significantly lower than branded Propecia, offering the same clinical benefits at a fraction of the price. At Mail My Meds, we provide transparent pricing for various pack sizes to help you maintain your treatment long-term.
| Pack Size | Duration | Price per Tablet |
|---|---|---|
| 28 Tablets | 1 Month | From £0.49 |
| 84 Tablets | 3 Months | From £0.41 |
| 168 Tablets | 6 Months | From £0.36 |
We offer flexible delivery options to ensure you never miss a dose of your hair loss medication. Most orders approved before 3pm are dispatched the same working day. You can choose from 24-hour or 48-hour tracked delivery, both of which are sent in discreet packaging that fits through most standard UK letterboxes.
Finasteride is a prescription-only medication used primarily to treat male pattern baldness, a hereditary condition that affects millions of men in the UK. While the 5mg dose is used for benign prostatic enlargement, the 1mg dose is specifically indicated for androgenetic alopecia. It is the most widely prescribed oral treatment for hair restoration because it is one of the only medications clinically proven to target the hormonal cause of follicle miniaturisation.
The active ingredient in this medication is Finasteride at a strength of 1mg per film-coated tablet. In addition to the active substance, the tablets contain inactive excipients such as lactose monohydrate, microcrystalline cellulose, and magnesium stearate. If you have a known allergy to any of these ingredients or have a lactose intolerance, please inform our prescriber during your consultation.
Patient feedback indicates that consistency is the most important factor in achieving success with Finasteride 1mg. Many users report a significant reduction in hair shedding within the first 12 weeks, followed by a noticeable increase in hair density at the crown and mid-scalp after 6 to 12 months. According to a long-term Japanese study, up to 90% of men who stayed on the treatment for over a decade maintained their hair or saw improvement compared to their baseline.
You should always read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication for a full list of ingredients, side effects, and instructions. A digital version of the Finasteride 1mg PIL can be found on the electronic Medicines Compendium (eMC) website or requested directly from our pharmacy team.
Finasteride works by inhibiting the 5-alpha reductase enzyme, which prevents the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). In men with a genetic predisposition to baldness, DHT binds to hair follicles, causing them to shrink and eventually stop producing hair. By reducing scalp DHT levels by up to 60%, Finasteride allows follicles to recover their size and return to a healthy growth phase (anagen).
To achieve the best results, you must take one 1mg tablet daily at approximately the same time each day. The tablets should be swallowed whole with water and can be taken with or without food. It is vital to continue taking the medication daily. If you stop treatment, the protective effect on your hair follicles will cease and hair loss is likely to resume within 9 to 12 months.
The standard and recommended dosage for male pattern hair loss is a single 1mg tablet taken once per day. Taking a higher dose, such as the 5mg tablet used for prostate issues, does not improve hair growth results but does increase the risk of potential side effects. If you miss a dose, do not take a double dose to compensate. Continue with your next scheduled tablet.
Like all medicines, Finasteride can cause side effects, although the majority of men (over 98% in clinical trials) do not experience them. Potential side effects can include a decreased sex drive (libido), erectile dysfunction, or a decrease in semen volume. Most of these symptoms are temporary and resolve if treatment is stopped, though a very small number of men may experience persistent symptoms known as Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS).
Finasteride is strictly for use by men only and should never be taken or handled by women who are pregnant or may become pregnant. This is because the active ingredient can be absorbed through the skin and may cause birth defects in a male foetus. Men should also be aware of the risk of mood changes, including depression and suicidal ideation; if you experience these, you must stop the medication and consult a doctor immediately.
Finasteride is often compared to topical Minoxidil and oral Dutasteride for the management of hair thinning. While Minoxidil works by increasing blood flow to the follicles, Finasteride addresses the underlying hormonal cause. Many specialists recommend a combination of both for maximum efficacy.
| Treatment | Type | Mechanism | Typical Success Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Finasteride 1mg | Oral Tablet | Blocks DHT (Type II) | Approx. 90% (Stabilisation) |
| Minoxidil 5% | Topical Foam/Liquid | Vasodilator | Approx. 60-70% |
| Dutasteride | Oral Capsule | Blocks DHT (Type I & II) | Higher (Off-label in UK) |
When is the best time to take Finasteride?
You can take Finasteride at any time of day, but most people find it easiest to remember when taken as part of a morning or evening routine. Consistency is more important than the specific hour you choose.
Can I get Finasteride on the NHS for hair loss?
No, Finasteride 1mg is not available on the NHS for the treatment of hair loss, as it is considered a cosmetic concern. It must be obtained via a private prescription, which our online clinic provides as part of your order.
Can a man take Finasteride while trying to conceive?
While the amount of Finasteride found in semen is extremely low and unlikely to pose a risk, men concerned about fertility may choose to pause treatment. Recent studies show no significant impact on male fertility at the 1mg dose, but consultation with a specialist is advised if you have pre-existing fertility issues.
Does Finasteride regrow hair or just stop loss?
Finasteride is primarily used to stop further hair loss, but around two-thirds of men experience some degree of visible hair regrowth. It is most effective at regrowing hair on the crown (vertex) rather than the receding temples.
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and should not replace seeking advice from a medical professional for personalised diagnosis or treatment. Always consult with your GP or a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new medication.
At Mail My Meds, our content is regularly reviewed by our team of medical experts and pharmacists to ensure all clinical information is up to date, accurate, and reflects current UK medical guidelines.
