If you’ve been researching treatments for male pattern baldness, you’ve likely come across the well-known brand Propecia and finasteride, the more affordable generic version.
But what’s the real difference? Is cheap finasteride just as good?
Below, we’ll explain exactly how the two compare, what makes one cheaper than the other, and how to decide which is right for you.
What is finasteride and how does it work?
Finasteride is a prescription medicine used to treat male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia). It works by blocking an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into DHT (dihydrotestosterone), which is the hormone that causes hair follicles to shrink over time.
By lowering DHT levels, finasteride helps stop further hair loss and, for many men, encourages regrowth in areas like the crown and hairline.
Propecia is the brand name for finasteride 1mg tablets, developed and marketed by Merck. Once its patent expired, other pharmaceutical companies were allowed to manufacture generic finasteride, offering the same medication at a lower price.
Propecia vs. generic finasteride: the key difference
When it comes to active ingredients and effectiveness, there’s no difference between Propecia and generic finasteride. Both contain 1mg of finasteride as the active ingredient, both are approved by the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency), and both work in exactly the same way inside the body.
So why the price gap?
The answer lies in branding and licensing costs. Branded medicines like Propecia are priced higher to recover research, development, and marketing expenses. Once the patent ends, generic manufacturers can produce the same medicine, meaning you’re paying mainly for the name, not a better result.
That’s why cheap finasteride is such a popular choice among men looking for reliable, long-term hair-loss treatment without the premium price tag.
Are cheap finasteride tablets just as effective?
Yes, cheap finasteride tablets are just as effective as Propecia. For a medicine to be sold in the UK, generics must meet strict MHRA standards proving they are bioequivalent to the branded version.
“Bioequivalent” means they work the same way in your body:
- They contain the same active ingredient in the same strength.
- They deliver it at the same rate.
- They produce the same effects on hair growth and hormone levels.
In short: if you’re taking finasteride 1mg daily, it doesn’t matter whether it says Propecia or Finasteride on the box; you’re getting the same clinical result.
Do side effects or results differ?
Since both medicines have the same active ingredient, the side effects and expected results are identical. Some men worry that cheaper finasteride might be “weaker” or “riskier,” but that’s simply not true. All versions must go through the same quality control and manufacturing standards as branded medicines.
Occasionally, inactive ingredients, such as the coating or filler, may vary slightly between brands. These differences rarely affect how the medicine works, but if you have allergies or sensitivities, check the patient leaflet or ask a pharmacist before starting treatment.
How long does finasteride take to work?
Whether you choose branded or generic, results take time. Most men notice reduced hair loss after three to six months, with visible regrowth appearing around nine to 12 months. Consistency is key: finasteride only works while you take it. Stopping treatment allows DHT levels to rise again, which can restart the hair-loss process within months.
Why many men choose the cheaper option
For long-term treatment, cost matters. Finasteride is usually taken daily for as long as you want to maintain results, so saving money each month can make a big difference.
Choosing cheap finasteride doesn’t mean compromising on quality. It means getting the same medically proven treatment at a lower cost, especially when ordered from a UK-registered online chemist.
Some men prefer to start with the brand they’ve heard of (Propecia) for reassurance, then switch to generic once they feel comfortable. Others go straight for the generic option and never look back. Both approaches are valid.
When it comes to treating male pattern baldness, there’s no mystery: Propecia and cheap finasteride work the same way. The only difference is the branding and the price tag.
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