How to get finasteride for enlarged prostate or hair loss

Finasteride is prescribed for conditions like enlarged prostate or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and male pattern hair loss (MPHL). Both of these conditions are related to the overproduction of a sex hormone known as dihydrotestosterone (DHT) that can enlarge the prostate and shrink hair follicles.

Finasteride belongs to a class of medications called 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors. It reduces the effects of an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase that converts testosterone into DHT. Finasteride comes in tablet form that you take by mouth once per day.

The finasteride package label instructs that it is not for use in women or children. However, under specific circumstances, some healthcare professionals may prescribe the medication for excess facial hair growth in females.

Finasteride comes in a generic version, or you may also find it in the United States as brand names like Proscar, for enlarged prostate and hair loss, and Propecia, for male pattern baldness.

You can’t buy finasteride over the counter (OTC). Finasteride generic and brand versions are prescription-only medications.

Note: We use “women” and “men” in this article to reflect the terms that have been historically used to gender people. However, your gender identity may not align with how your body responds to this disease. Your doctor can better help you understand how your specific circumstances will translate into diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment. 

How do you get a finasteride prescription?

Finasteride is only available by prescription, so you need to consult with a healthcare professional first, who will determine whether this is the right medication for you.

If you want a prescription for finasteride, you have several options. For instance, you can:

• schedule an in-person visit with a medical professional
• schedule an online visit with a medical professional, if they offer this type of service
• use an online health service, like Optum Perks, if you have hair loss or male pattern baldness
• use an online health service if you already have a prescription for finasteride and need a refill

Depending on your overall health and the severity of your condition, your doctor may want to see you in person.

A medical professional will evaluate your health history, perform a physical exam if necessary, and possibly order tests to determine whether finasteride is right for you. They may decide there are other more suitable options. 

Some factors that your doctor may consider before prescribing finasteride may include:

• your age and general health
• the severity and effects of your symptoms
• family history of prostate cancer or pattern baldness
• your current medications and supplements
• whether you have any allergies or sensitivities
• your personal expectations and preferences
• whether you or your partner are likely to get pregnant

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What are the side effects of finasteride?

According to the Proscar brand and Propecia brand labels, the side effects of finasteride may include:

• decreased libido (sex drive)
• erectile dysfunction
• ejaculation issues
• drop in blood pressure when standing up (orthostatic hypotension)
• feeling mentally and physically weak (asthenia)
• breast tenderness or enlargement
• localized or generalized rash or itching
• headaches
• dizziness
• swelling in the hands or feet (peripheral edema) 

Some of the rare but serious side effects of finasteride may include:

• depression
• allergic reactions
• male breast cancer
• increased risk of prostate cancer

Finasteride use may cause developmental issues for a fetus if taken or handled during pregnancy. Anyone who is pregnant or may become pregnant should avoid taking or handling finasteride tablets or coming into contact with the body fluids of a male who takes the medication. Be sure to talk with a medical professional for more information.

The brand medication labels note that adverse reactions from using finasteride with other drugs are unlikely. Still, it’s best to tell your doctor about any medications or supplements you’re currently taking.

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How much does finasteride cost?

The cost of finasteride can vary depending on:

• your dosage
• the quantity you’re prescribed
• your insurance coverage
• the pharmacy you use

Generic finasteride is usually more affordable and works just as well as the brand name versions.

Also, you can use Optum Perks coupons for finasteride, or for the brand-name versions, Propecia and Proscar, to help you save on your prescription costs.

You can use Optum Perks coupons even if you have health insurance, but you won’t be able to use both at the same time. You can check with your pharmacist to see whether using coupons or your insurance offers more savings on finasteride.

Alternative meds for enlarged prostate

Medications for enlarged prostate usually relieve symptoms like urinary retention. Besides finasteride, alternative medications approved for the treatment of enlarged prostate and urinary retention may include:

• Other 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors: Another type in this class is dutasteride (Avodart).
• Alpha-blockers: These relax the muscles in the prostate and bladder, making it easier to urinate. Examples include tamsulosin (Flomax) and alfuzosin hydrochloride ER (Uroxatral).
• Antimuscarinics: These medications reduce smooth muscle spasms in the bladder and help reduce the feeling of urgency and frequency of urination. These include:
  • solifenacin (Vesicare)
  • tolterodine (Detrol)
  • oxybutynin (Ditropan)

Alternative treatments for male pattern hair loss

Possible alternative medications and treatments for male pattern hair loss may include:

• Topical antiandrogens: These may improve blood flow and help deliver nutrients to hair follicles to promote growth, and you can buy them OTC. These include minoxidil (Rogaine).
• Hair transplant: Options like hair follicle extraction can be effective but costly ways to reduce the appearance of hair loss. 
• Wigs or toupees: Wigs or toupees can match your hair color and cover large areas of thinning hair.

Summary

Finasteride treats symptoms of enlarged prostate and male pattern hair loss. It is only available by prescription.

You can consult with a medical professional in person or via a virtual visit to get a prescription for finasteride. You can also use an online health service to get a prescription or a refill of this medication. This may be particularly helpful after hours or when your doctor isn’t available.

Finasteride is not the only medication that can help treat an enlarged prostate and male pattern hair loss. You can discuss alternative medications with your doctor.