Finasteride 1 mg: uses, price & cheaper substitutes
Prescription required (Schedule H)
Common uses: Male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) in men aged 18 and above – to slow hair thinning and help regrowth on the crown and mid-scalp; Used alongside minoxidil solution by many dermatologists for better results.
Listed MRPs range from ₹1.41 to ₹13.04 per tablet across 7 listings. Use only on a doctor's prescription.
Price comparison
| Brand | Manufacturer | Pack | MRP | ₹ / tablet | As on |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Finasteride Tablets IP 1mgJan Aushadhi | Jan Aushadhi (PMBJP) | 10 | ₹14.07 | ₹1.41 | 19 October 2026 |
| Finalo 1 | Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd | 10 | ₹65.63 | ₹6.56 | 19 October 2026 |
| Finostar 1 | Knoll Pharmaceuticals Ltd | 10 | ₹67.50 | ₹6.75 | 19 October 2026 |
| Finabald 1 | East West Pharma | 10 | ₹73.62 | ₹7.36 | 19 October 2026 |
| Finpecia 1 | Cipla Ltd | 15 | ₹151.12 | ₹10.07 | 19 October 2026 |
| Finast 1 | Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd | 10 | ₹111.51 | ₹11.15 | 19 October 2026 |
| Finax 1 | Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd | 30 | ₹391.35 | ₹13.04 | 19 October 2026 |
MRPs as printed/listed on the date shown; actual price may vary.
Uses
- Male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) in men aged 18 and above – to slow hair thinning and help regrowth on the crown and mid-scalp.
- Used alongside minoxidil solution by many dermatologists for better results.
- Maintaining hair that has regrown – the benefit lasts only while you keep taking it.
How to take it
Take one 1 mg tablet once a day, at the same time each day, with or without food. It takes at least 3 months to see any change and up to 12 months for the full effect; if there is no improvement after a year, further treatment is unlikely to help. The benefit lasts only while you keep taking it – hair gained is usually lost within a year of stopping. Women who are or may become pregnant must not handle crushed or broken tablets.
Side effects
Common
- Reduced sex drive.
- Difficulty getting an erection.
- Reduced semen volume.
- Breast tenderness or mild enlargement.
Serious
Stop and get medical help urgently if you notice any of these.
- Breast lump, pain or nipple discharge – see a doctor.
- Depression or low mood, thoughts of self-harm.
- Serious allergic reaction – swelling of the lips, face or throat.
- Testicular pain that does not settle.
Safety information
Alcohol
No direct interaction. Alcohol can worsen erection problems, so keep it moderate.
Pregnancy
For men only. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant must not take it or touch crushed tablets, because it can harm a male baby's development.
Kidney problems
No dose change needed in kidney disease.
Liver problems
Tell your doctor if you have liver disease; it is processed by the liver.
Children
Not for boys under 18.
Missed dose
Skip the missed tablet and take the next one at the usual time. Do not double up.
Interactions
- No major drug interactions are known.
- Tell your doctor about all medicines, including other hair-loss or prostate treatments.
- Finasteride lowers the PSA blood test used for prostate screening – tell the lab or doctor you take it.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Finpecia take to work for hair loss?
At least 3 months before you notice less hair fall, and up to 12 months for the best regrowth. If nothing has changed after a year, it is unlikely to help further.
Does Finax cause erectile dysfunction?
A small number of men notice lower sex drive, erection difficulty or less semen. In most it is mild and settles with continued use or after stopping, but tell your doctor if it troubles you.
What happens if I stop taking Finpecia?
The benefit is maintained only while you take it. Hair that was regrown is usually lost again within about 12 months of stopping.
Finpecia 1 mg vs Finast 5 mg – can I take 5 mg for hair?
No. 1 mg is the dose for hair loss; 5 mg is for an enlarged prostate. Taking the higher dose does not grow more hair and increases side effects.
Can women take Finpecia for hair fall?
No. Finasteride is not approved for women and is dangerous in pregnancy because it can affect a male baby's development. Women with hair loss should see a dermatologist for other options.
Can I take finasteride 1 mg with minoxidil?
Yes, dermatologists commonly combine oral finasteride with minoxidil solution or foam. They work differently and the combination usually gives better results.
Can I take Finpecia with alcohol?
There is no direct interaction. Alcohol in excess can itself worsen erection problems, so keep it moderate.
Does Finpecia need a prescription?
Yes. Finasteride is a Schedule H medicine in India. A dermatologist should confirm male pattern baldness first, as other causes of hair fall need different treatment.
Sources
- MedlinePlus – Finasteride (19 October 2026)
- NHS – Finasteride (19 October 2026)
- NPPA Pharma Sahi Daam (ceiling prices) (19 October 2026)
- PMBI Jan Aushadhi Product & MRP List (19 October 2026)
Medyzen Editorial Team · Last updated
This page is general information, not medical advice. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without asking a doctor or pharmacist. Terms