Finasteride is a prescription-only medication used to treat male pattern hair loss. It works by reducing the hormone (DHT) that contributes to thinning hair, helping slow hair loss and, for many men, encouraging thicker hair to regrow.
At specialist UK services such as DrHair, oral finasteride (1 mg) is available in flexible plans starting from around £11.80 for a monthly supply. Prices may vary based on plan length and whether other treatments are combined with finasteride.
Prices for hair-loss medications can also vary widely across UK pharmacies and online clinics, depending on pack size, dose and provider. In this article, we’ll cover:
- Typical finasteride price in the UK
- The difference between oral and topical formulations
- Where you can obtain finasteride safely and legally
How much does finasteride cost in the UK?
Finasteride cost in the UK varies according to pack size, supply length and where you are buying it from exactly.
For example, at DrHair, our prices are as follows:
Pack Size | Supply Length | Example Price |
28 tablets | 1 month | £14.50 |
84 tablets | 3 months | £39.60 |
168 tablets | 6 months | £70.80 |
Is finasteride available on prescription from the NHS?
Finasteride can be prescribed on the NHS in certain cases, such as for benign prostate enlargement (BPE). When it’s issued for this type of medical need, it falls under the usual NHS prescription system, meaning you’ll only pay the standard prescription charge (as of March 2026, this is £9.90 per item).
Hair loss treatment is different. Finasteride isn’t provided through the NHS for male pattern baldness, so it must be accessed privately instead. This typically involves getting a prescription from an online clinic or specialist provider, and the overall cost is usually higher than the NHS rate.
Why does Propecia cost more than generic finasteride?
Generic vs branded finasteride is a frequent topic. Many pharmacies price branded finasteride more highly than the generic version. For example, the 1mg dose is often sold under the brand name Propecia, and it typically costs more than generic finasteride.
However, the active ingredient is exactly the same, meaning there’s no medical evidence that Propecia works better than the generic option, despite the higher price. Despite this, there’s often a lot of talk in relation to generic vs branded finasteride.
The same applies to the 5mg strength, which is commonly marketed as Proscar. Branded Proscar is usually more expensive than generic 5mg finasteride, even though the treatment itself is equivalent.
How much does topical finasteride cost?
A topical and minoxidil formula can cost around £20. However, topical finasteride is far less common than oral; almost 70% of International Society Of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS) practitioners say they often prescribe it to patients, compared with 17% for topical [1].
At the moment, topical finasteride cannot usually be purchased as a standalone treatment through UK online pharmacies. Most hair loss sprays sold online combine topical minoxidil (5%) with a low concentration of finasteride (typically 0.1%).
Should I have a consultation before buying finasteride?
Yes, you should have a consultation before buying finasteride. Finasteride is effective for many people, but it is not always suitable. For example, finasteride is not generally recommended for women, and men who are trying to conceive with their partner are usually advised to avoid it. As with any prescription treatment, it’s important to make sure you’re an appropriate candidate and fully aware of the potential side effects before beginning.
Get your finasteride at DrHair now
If you are considering finasteride for male pattern hair loss, choosing a trusted provider is just as important as choosing the treatment itself. At DrHair, you can access clinically approved 1 mg oral finasteride through a simple online consultation, ensuring the medication is suitable for you before you begin.
Our flexible plans are designed to make treatment straightforward and affordable, with clear pricing and no hidden costs. Whether you prefer a one month supply or a longer plan for better value, you can select the option that fits your needs and have it delivered directly to your door in discreet packaging.
Hair loss can affect confidence, but taking action early can make a real difference. Start your consultation with DrHair today and take the next step towards slowing hair loss and supporting thicker, healthier looking hair.
FAQ
In 2026, finasteride prices remain similar to recent years. At providers such as DrHair, 1 mg oral finasteride starts from around £11.80 per month, with longer plans offering better value.
In the UK, a one month supply of 1 mg finasteride typically costs between £11.80 and £20 through private clinics. Branded Propecia usually costs more than generic finasteride, despite containing the same active ingredient. Finasteride is not available on the NHS for hair loss.
Finasteride is generally safe for most men when prescribed appropriately. A consultation is important to ensure it is suitable for you and to discuss possible finasteride side effects.
Most men notice reduced hair shedding after three to six months. Visible improvements in thickness or regrowth usually take six to twelve months of consistent use. Learn more about how long it takes finasteride to work.
