Finasteride is a widely prescribed medication primarily used to treat two distinct conditions in men: androgenetic alopecia (male pattern hair loss) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or an enlarged prostate [1.6.2]. Because it requires long-term use to be effective, understanding its cost is crucial for many patients. The price can vary significantly based on dosage, brand name versus generic, the pharmacy you choose, and your insurance coverage [1.8.2].
Understanding Finasteride: How It Works
Finasteride belongs to a class of drugs called 5-alpha reductase inhibitors [1.6.2]. Its mechanism of action involves blocking the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which is responsible for converting testosterone into a more potent androgen called dihydrotestosterone (DHT) [1.6.6].
- For Hair Loss: DHT is a key driver of male pattern baldness. It binds to receptors in hair follicles on the scalp, causing them to shrink (a process called miniaturization). This shortens the hair growth cycle, resulting in thinner, shorter hairs until growth stops altogether [1.6.1]. Finasteride lowers DHT levels in the scalp by about 70%, which can halt hair loss progression and, in many cases, stimulate regrowth [1.5.5]. Studies show that about 90% of men benefit from taking finasteride for hair loss [1.5.5].
- For BPH: DHT also promotes the growth of the prostate gland. An enlarged prostate can press on the urethra, causing urinary symptoms like a frequent need to urinate, a weak stream, and difficulty emptying the bladder [1.6.1]. By reducing DHT levels within the prostate, finasteride can shrink the prostate, alleviate these symptoms, and reduce the risk of needing prostate surgery [1.7.2, 1.6.4].
It typically takes 3 to 6 months to see improvements in hair loss, while BPH symptoms may take 6 months or longer to improve [1.6.2]. The benefits of the medication only last as long as it is being taken [1.7.2].
Finasteride Cost Breakdown: CVS vs. Competitors
The cash price of finasteride can fluctuate significantly. Without insurance, a 30-day supply of generic finasteride (1mg) can range from $20 to $60 [1.2.5]. Using prescription discount services can dramatically lower this cost.
For a typical prescription of generic finasteride, GoodRx lists the price at CVS Pharmacy as approximately $19.87 [1.2.3]. However, prices at other pharmacies can be substantially lower. For example, the same prescription could cost as little as $2.00 at Walmart or Sam's Club using a discount coupon [1.2.3].
Comparison Table: Generic Finasteride Prices (with discount coupon)
| Pharmacy Chain | Estimated Price (30-day supply) |
|---|---|
| Walmart | $2.00 |
| Sam's Club | $2.00 |
| Walgreens | $7.43 |
| Dillons Pharmacy | $15.33 |
| CVS Pharmacy | $19.87 |
| Target (managed by CVS) | $19.87 |
Prices are based on GoodRx data as of September 2025 and can vary by location and specific coupon [1.2.3].
Dosage and Brand Impact on Price
Finasteride is available in two primary dosages for different conditions:
- 1mg (Propecia and generics): FDA-approved for male pattern hair loss [1.8.3].
- 5mg (Proscar and generics): FDA-approved for BPH [1.8.3].
Brand-name versions like Propecia can cost over $50 per month, while generics are significantly cheaper, often less than $12 at some pharmacies with a discount [1.4.4, 1.8.3].
Insurance coverage plays a pivotal role. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, typically cover generic finasteride (5mg) for the medical treatment of BPH [1.9.1, 1.9.2]. However, treatment for hair loss (1mg) is considered cosmetic and is rarely covered by insurance, meaning most patients pay out-of-pocket [1.9.3, 1.9.5].
Strategies for Saving on Finasteride
Given the potential for high out-of-pocket costs, especially for hair loss treatment, several strategies can help you save money:
- Always Choose Generic: The FDA requires generic drugs to be just as safe and effective as their brand-name counterparts [1.8.2]. Opting for generic finasteride over Propecia or Proscar is the single most effective way to reduce costs.
- Use Prescription Discount Cards: Services like GoodRx or SingleCare offer free coupons that can lower the price of finasteride dramatically, often making it cheaper than an insurance co-pay [1.8.3].
- Shop Around: As the comparison table shows, prices vary widely between pharmacies. Check prices at multiple locations before filling your prescription [1.8.2].
- Buy a 90-Day Supply: Purchasing a 3-month supply can sometimes be cheaper per pill than a 30-day supply and reduces trips to the pharmacy [1.8.4].
- Consider Mail-Order Pharmacies: Some mail-order or online pharmacies can offer competitive pricing and the convenience of home delivery [1.8.4].
- Talk to Your Doctor About Dosage: Some physicians may prescribe the 5mg tablet to be split into quarters to approximate the 1.25mg daily dose for hair loss, which can be significantly more cost-effective [1.4.1]. However, you must not do this without explicit medical guidance, as the tablets may not be designed for even splitting [1.4.6].
Important Safety Information and Side Effects
While generally well-tolerated, finasteride can cause side effects. Common ones include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction (ED), and problems with ejaculation [1.7.1]. These occur in a small percentage of users (around 2-4%) [1.7.3]. In some men, these sexual side effects have persisted even after stopping the medication, a condition sometimes referred to as Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS) [1.7.4].
Other less common side effects can include breast tenderness or enlargement (gynecomastia), testicular pain, and depression [1.7.1, 1.7.2]. It is important to report any changes in the breast area, such as lumps or pain, to a doctor immediately [1.7.1].
Crucially, women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not handle crushed or broken finasteride tablets, as the active ingredient can be absorbed through the skin and cause birth defects in a male fetus [1.7.2].
Conclusion
While the question 'How much is finasteride at CVS?' reveals a price of around $20 with a coupon, savvy consumers can find it for much less at other pharmacies like Walmart [1.2.3]. The key to managing the cost of this long-term medication lies in choosing the generic version, utilizing prescription discount cards, and comparing pharmacy prices. Insurance is likely to cover it for BPH but not for hair loss, making these savings strategies particularly important for those treating androgenetic alopecia. Always discuss the potential benefits, risks, and costs with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for your health and budget. For those interested in learning more from an authoritative source, the National Library of Medicine provides comprehensive drug information.
