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Finasteride
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✓ Stops Hair Loss | ✓ Promotes Regrowth | ✓ From 27p/day
Finasteride 1mg is the clinically proven, prescription-only treatment for male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia). It works by blocking DHT, the hormone responsible for shrinking hair follicles.
Also available: Branded Propecia and Regaine (Minoxidil).
- Reduces hair loss
- Can produce new hair regrowth
- Long term treatment
- Genuine medication
- All drugs sourced in the UK
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More information
Order Finasteride Online: The Daily Hair Loss Pill
Finasteride 1mg is a daily oral treatment that effectively stops hair loss and promotes regrowth in men with male pattern baldness (alopecia). It is the generic version of the well-known brand Propecia.
A Doctor's Overview
 | GP and surgeon, Dr Shane Charles explains: "Finasteride works by reducing levels of Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the scalp. By lowering DHT, it allows hair follicles to recover and grow thicker, healthier hair." Start an online consultation now. If suitable, our prescribers can issue a finasteride prescription for delivery to your door. |
Doctor's Corner: Questions Answered by a Pharmacist
 | UK Meds spoke with community pharmacist, Tracy Ho, to get answers to the common questions patients ask about Finasteride. |
Summary: What is Finasteride Used For?
While commonly used for prostate issues, the primary finasteride uses in this strength (1mg) are to treat hair loss.
[Image of male pattern baldness stages]| Type of drug | 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor |
| Main Use | Male Pattern Baldness (Alopecia) |
| Active Ingredient | Finasteride 1mg |
| Time to results | 3 to 6 Months |
| Success Rate | 90% of men maintain or regrow hair[1] |
| Patient Info | Download Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) |
Finasteride Prices
Choose the best cost option for you. Buying in bulk offers significant savings per tablet.
| Quantity | Price from |
|---|---|
| 28 tablets (1 Month) | £14.39 (£0.57 per tablet) |
| 56 tablets (2 Months) | £19.79 (£0.35 per tablet) |
| 84 tablets (3 Months) | £26.98 (£0.32 per tablet) |
| 168 tablets (6 Months) | £44.99 (£0.27 per tablet) |
Note: Pricing is subject to change. Please refer to the top of the page for live prices.
Delivery Options
We offer fast, discreet delivery via Royal Mail and DPD.
| Method | Price | Speed |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Delivery | £2.95 (Free over £49.99) | 3-4 Working Days |
| Next-Day Delivery | £4.95 | Next day (if ordered before 2:30pm) |
| DPD Next-Day | £6.95 | Next working day |
For the latest information, please visit our delivery page. You can also read our policies and returns process.
How Does Finasteride Work? (Blocking DHT)
Male pattern baldness is caused by a hormone called Dihydrotestosterone (DHT). In susceptible men, DHT shrinks hair follicles until they can no longer produce visible hair.
The finasteride mechanism of action is simple: it belongs to a class of drugs called 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors. It prevents your body from converting testosterone into DHT[2].
- Lowers DHT: Reduces scalp DHT levels by up to 60%[3].
- Protects Follicles: Stops the shrinking process.
- Encourages Growth: Allows follicles to produce thicker, stronger hair again.
Video: Does Finasteride Work?
Watch Dr O'Donovan explain the science behind Finasteride and how to take it correctly.
Finasteride Results Timeline
Hair growth is a slow process. Patience and consistency are essential when you buy finasteride online.
- Months 1-3 (Finasteride Shedding): You may notice increased hair loss. Do not panic—this "shedding" is a positive sign the drug is working to clear out thin, weak hairs to make room for new growth[4].
- Months 3-6: Shedding stops. You may notice less hair in the shower drain. Early regrowth may appear as fine "peach fuzz".
- Months 6-12: Visible thickening of the hair. Existing hair becomes stronger.
- Year 1+: Maximum results are usually seen after 1-2 years of daily use[5].
Note: If you stop taking the finasteride pill, your DHT levels will rise again, and you will lose any regained hair within 9-12 months.
What Do People Say About Finasteride?
Finasteride vs Propecia vs Regaine
Unsure which finasteride alternative is right for you? Compare your options below.
| Treatment | Type | How it Works | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Generic Finasteride | Oral Tablet | Blocks DHT hormonally. | Best overall value & efficacy. |
| Propecia | Oral Tablet | Blocks DHT hormonally. | Those who prefer branded medication. |
| Regaine (Minoxidil) | Topical Foam | Stimulates blood flow to follicles. | Boosting regrowth at the crown. |
Pro Tip: Many men use Finasteride and Minoxidil together for a "dual action" approach—blocking the hormone while stimulating growth.
Lifestyle and Hair Loss
Hair loss is primarily hormonal, but lifestyle factors play a role. Maintaining a healthy weight can support hormonal balance. In some cases, treatments like Mounjaro for weight loss may contribute to an overall wellbeing plan that supports hair retention.
Side Effects & Safety
Is finasteride safe? Yes, for the vast majority of men. However, like all medicines, finasteride side effects can occur.
 | Dania Al-Zarrad (Senior Specialist Pharmacist) explains: "Finasteride can reduce libido and cause erectile dysfunction in a small number of men (approx 1-2%). Rare reports include low mood or breast tenderness. If you notice lumps, pain, or nipple discharge, report this to your doctor immediately." |
Who should NOT take Finasteride?
- Finasteride for women: Women should NOT take this medication, especially if pregnant, as broken tablets can harm unborn male babies[6].
- Men under 18 years old.
- Men who are lactose intolerant (tablets contain lactose).
- Men already taking dutasteride (Avodart) for prostate issues.
Drug Interactions: Tell your doctor if you are taking Tretinoin, Betamethasone, or Guanethidine (blood pressure medication), as these may interact with Finasteride.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Post Finasteride Syndrome?
Post Finasteride Syndrome (PFS) refers to reported persistent side effects (sexual, physical, or psychological) that continue after stopping the drug. While this condition is controversial and not fully understood by the medical community, UK Meds takes all side effect reports seriously. If you experience persistent issues, consult your doctor immediately.
How to reduce side effects of Finasteride?
To reduce side effects, stick to the prescribed 1mg daily dose. Taking more will not increase hair growth but will increase the risk of side effects. Consistent daily use helps your body adjust to the medication. If side effects persist, speak to your doctor about adjusting your treatment plan.
Does Finasteride lower testosterone?
Actually, does finasteride increase testosterone? Yes, slightly. Because Finasteride prevents testosterone from converting into DHT, your remaining testosterone levels may rise marginally (by about 10-15%). This is generally harmless[7].
Does Finasteride have anything to do with weight?
There is no strong clinical evidence linking Finasteride to significant weight gain or loss. If you experience unexplained weight changes while on oral finasteride, it is likely due to lifestyle factors rather than the drug itself.
Can I buy Finasteride over the counter?
No. In the UK, Finasteride is a prescription-only medicine. You cannot buy it off the shelf at Boots or Alpha XR without a prescription. UK Meds offers a private finasteride prescription uk service included with your order.
Does Finasteride affect beard growth?
Finasteride targets scalp hair specifically because scalp follicles are sensitive to DHT in a way that facial hair is not. Current research suggests it does not significantly affect beard thickness or growth[8].
UK Meds Hair Loss Resource Hub
Does It Work?
Alternatives
References & Sources
- Clinical Efficacy: Kaufman et al. (1998) - "Finasteride in the treatment of men with androgenetic alopecia." PubMed.
- Mechanism of Action: Anitha et al. (2009) - "Finasteride: its impact on sexual function and prostate cancer." NCBI.
- DHT Reduction: Kaufman & Dawber (1999) - "Finasteride, a Type 2 5alpha-Reductase Inhibitor." PubMed.
- Shedding & Timeline: Kaplan & Olsson (1996) - "Effect of finasteride in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia." PubMed.
- Long-term Results: Zito et al. (2023) - "Finasteride." NCBI Bookshelf.
- Use in Women: Leinung et al. (2018) - "Endocrine Treatment of Transsexual Persons." NCBI.
- Testosterone Impact: Roehrborn et al. (2003) - "The effects of finasteride on serum testosterone and estradiol." PubMed.
- Beard Growth: Inadomi (2014) - "Finasteride and facial hair." NCBI.
- Safety Profile: MHRA (2018) - "Finasteride: rare reports of depression and suicidal thoughts." GOV.UK.
General Medical Guidelines
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UK Meds is committed to providing clear, accurate and up-to-date medical information in line with our Editorial Policy and Content Policy. All content is regularly reviewed to help you make informed decisions before starting a consultation with a registered prescriber.
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice. Always speak to a doctor, pharmacist or healthcare professional before beginning any treatment.
Page Last Updated: 9th January 2026
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