Medication
Finasteride
Written by the Verra clinical team · Medical review pending · Last updated Oct 4, 2026
Quick answer
Finasteride blocks the enzyme that turns testosterone into DHT, the hormone that shrinks hair follicles in male pattern hair loss. It can slow loss and regrow some hair. It is available as a pill and in compounded topical form.
Key takeaways
- Lowers scalp DHT to protect follicles.
- Results take 3 to 6 months or more.
- Not for use by people who are or may become pregnant.
What it is
A 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor.
How it works
It reduces DHT, slowing follicle shrinkage.
Forms and doses we offer
Compounded topical combined with minoxidil.
Common side effects
Uncommon sexual side effects such as lower libido; scalp irritation with topical forms. Mood changes have been reported.
Who should not take it
Pregnant people should not handle crushed tablets or use it. Tell your provider about depression history.
Interactions to discuss
It can lower PSA test results; tell any doctor checking your prostate.
Verra treatments containing finasteride
A licensed provider decides whether a treatment is appropriate after your visit.
Questions
How does finasteride work for male pattern hair loss?
Finasteride blocks an enzyme that changes testosterone into DHT, a hormone that can shrink hair follicles in male pattern hair loss. It may slow hair loss and help some hair grow back. Results vary. A licensed physician in your state decides whether finasteride is appropriate for you.
Who may be eligible for finasteride for hair loss?
Finasteride pills for hair loss are intended for adult men with male pattern hair loss. Finasteride is not appropriate during pregnancy and is not intended for children. A licensed physician in your state must review your symptoms, health history, and medicines before deciding whether to prescribe it.
How long does finasteride take to show results?
Finasteride works slowly. With oral finasteride, it may take at least three months before you notice a change, and your physician may recommend a longer review period. Results vary. Follow your prescribed schedule, and do not take extra doses or apply more topical medicine to try to speed things up.
How are oral finasteride and compounded topical finasteride different?
Oral finasteride is swallowed, while topical finasteride is applied to the scalp. Topical finasteride can still enter the bloodstream and cause whole-body side effects. Compounded medications are prepared by a licensed pharmacy for one patient and are not FDA-approved. Your physician decides which form, if either, is appropriate.
What side effects can finasteride cause?
Finasteride can cause lower sex drive, trouble getting or keeping an erection, and changes in ejaculation. Mood changes and breast changes have also been reported. Topical products may irritate the scalp and can cause whole-body effects. Contact your physician about new symptoms; seek urgent help for a severe allergic reaction.
How should I use finasteride, and what if I miss a dose?
Use finasteride exactly as prescribed. Hair-loss tablets are usually taken once daily, with or without food. Topical directions depend on your specific formula. For a missed tablet, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double up. Ask your pharmacist about missed topical applications.
Can finasteride be used with minoxidil or other hair-loss treatments?
A physician may prescribe finasteride with minoxidil because they work in different ways. The combination may help some people manage hair loss, but results vary. Do not add treatments on your own. Your physician should review each product, its ingredients, and your health history before recommending a combination.
What pregnancy and fertility precautions apply to finasteride?
Finasteride must not be used during pregnancy because it can harm a developing male fetus. Anyone pregnant or who could become pregnant should not handle crushed or broken tablets or contact topical finasteride. Tell your physician if you are trying to conceive or have concerns about semen changes or fertility.
Can finasteride affect PSA testing or interact with other medicines?
Finasteride can lower prostate-specific antigen, or PSA, which may affect how a prostate blood test is read. Tell anyone ordering a PSA test that you use finasteride, including topical treatment. Share all medicines and supplements with your physician so they can check for overlap, interactions, and other safety concerns.
What happens if I stop finasteride or switch forms?
Stopping finasteride usually means losing its hair-maintenance benefit over time. With oral treatment, hair gained during use is often lost within about 12 months after stopping. Results vary. Talk with your physician before stopping or switching between oral and topical forms, especially if side effects are the reason.
Related reading
Sources
This page is general information, not medical advice. Results vary. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved. Our editorial policy
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