Hair Loss Medications Guide
Everything you need to know about hair loss medications — how they work, what they cost, side effects, and where to get them.
Finasteride
genericFinasteride — 1mg oral tablet taken once daily
Men experiencing early to moderate androgenetic alopecia (male pattern hair loss) who want a once-daily oral treatment that targets the root hormonal cause of thinning.
$8–$27/mo
See quoted unit
Minoxidil (Topical)
otcMinoxidil — 5% foam or solution applied to the scalp twice daily
Men and women looking for an accessible, no-prescription-needed treatment to support hair regrowth and slow thinning — especially those who prefer to avoid systemic medications.
$8–$20/mo
See quoted unit
Dutasteride
genericDutasteride — 0.5mg oral capsule taken once daily
Men who have not responded adequately to finasteride and are looking for a more potent DHT-blocking option, with the understanding that dutasteride is prescribed off-label for hair loss.
$10–$59/mo
See quoted unit
Oral Minoxidil (Low-Dose)
genericMinoxidil — 2.5mg oral tablet taken once daily (typical low-dose protocol)
Men and women who find topical minoxidil inconvenient, irritating, or ineffective and are looking for a potentially more consistent systemic alternative — under the guidance of a prescribing provider.
$10–$22/mo
See quoted unit
Topical Finasteride + Minoxidil
compoundedFinasteride/Minoxidil (compounded topical) — Follow the exact prescription and dispensing instructions; concentration, amount per application, and frequency differ.
A clinician assessing the cause of hair loss and whether a compounded prescription is appropriate
Quote required
See quoted unit
Medication Comparisons
Finasteride vs. Minoxidil: Which Hair Loss Treatment May Be Right for You?
Finasteride and minoxidil are the two most well-known and widely used hair loss treatments available today — and they work in fundamentally different ways. Finasteride is an oral prescription medication that targets DHT, the hormone behind follicle miniaturization, while minoxidil is a topical OTC treatment that may improve blood flow to the scalp and support follicle health. Many providers recommend using both together for a complementary approach, but if you are considering starting with one, understanding their differences can help you make a more informed decision.
Read Comparison »Oral vs. Topical Hair Loss Treatments: Comparing Your Options
One of the most common decisions people face when starting hair loss treatment is whether to go with an oral medication, a topical product, or some combination of both. Oral treatments like finasteride and low-dose oral minoxidil work systemically — they are absorbed into the bloodstream and affect the body from the inside out. Topical treatments like minoxidil solution, foam, and compounded finasteride sprays are applied directly to the scalp and are designed to act more locally. Each approach has distinct advantages and trade-offs, and the right choice often depends on your specific type of hair loss, tolerance for side effects, lifestyle preferences, and provider guidance.
Read Comparison »