What is Finasteride and How Does Hims Prescribe It?
Finasteride is a prescription medication used to treat male pattern baldness, known scientifically as androgenetic alopecia. It works by inhibiting the enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that shrinks hair follicles. Hims offers finasteride through a telehealth model, which typically follows these steps:
- Online Intake: A prospective patient completes a medical questionnaire detailing their health history and hair loss concerns.
- Provider Review: A licensed medical provider reviews the patient's information to determine if finasteride is an appropriate treatment.
- Consultation: In some states, a video or audio call is required, while in others, the communication is via messaging. The provider discusses treatment options and risks.
- Prescription and Delivery: If approved, the prescription is sent to a Hims-affiliated or partner pharmacy, and the medication is shipped directly to the patient in discreet packaging.
Oral vs. Topical Finasteride: FDA Approval Status
Hims offers finasteride in both oral and topical forms, but their FDA approval status differs significantly.
Oral Finasteride
This is the same active ingredient found in the brand-name drug Propecia and its generic version.
- FDA Approval: Oral finasteride (1mg) is FDA-approved for treating male pattern baldness.
- Legitimacy: The oral finasteride obtained through Hims is a legitimate, FDA-approved medication, provided it is prescribed by a licensed provider and sourced from an FDA-regulated pharmacy, which Hims states it uses.
Topical (Compounded) Finasteride
Hims also offers a topical finasteride and minoxidil spray, which is a compounded product.
- FDA Approval: Topical finasteride is not FDA-approved for hair loss. The FDA does not verify the safety or effectiveness of compounded drugs.
- Legitimacy and Warnings: While compounding is legal, the FDA has issued warnings regarding compounded finasteride, noting that its safety and effectiveness have not been reviewed. A Wall Street Journal report highlighted multiple accounts of men experiencing serious side effects from compounded finasteride, which they said were not adequately communicated by telehealth platforms.
Comparing Hims Finasteride to a Traditional Pharmacy
| Feature | Hims Online Prescription | Traditional In-Person Prescription |
|---|---|---|
| Consultation Method | Online questionnaire and messaging, with video/audio calls depending on state laws. | In-person visit with a physician or dermatologist. |
| Convenience | High. Prescriptions delivered to your door; no clinic visit required. | Lower. Requires an appointment, travel, and a pharmacy pickup. |
| Finasteride Options | Offers FDA-approved oral and unapproved compounded topical options. | Typically prescribes FDA-approved oral version. Dermatologists may prescribe compounded topical off-label. |
| FDA Status | Oral is FDA-approved. Topical (compounded) is not reviewed by the FDA for safety or efficacy. | Oral finasteride is FDA-approved and dispensed from standard pharmacies. |
| Cost | Transparent subscription pricing, often without insurance. | Cost varies based on insurance coverage and pharmacy. |
| Side Effects Communication | Disclosed on the website, but some users have reported feeling uninformed about severe risks, especially with compounded products. | Provider discusses side effects directly with the patient in a clinical setting. |
Potential Side Effects
It is crucial to understand the potential side effects associated with finasteride, regardless of how it is obtained. The risks differ somewhat between oral and topical administration.
Common side effects of Oral Finasteride:
- Decreased libido
- Erectile dysfunction
- Ejaculation disorder
- Breast tenderness or enlargement
Potential side effects of Topical (Compounded) Finasteride:
- Localized scalp irritation, redness, or itching.
- Systemic side effects like those seen with oral finasteride, although some studies suggest a lower risk. Recent FDA warnings highlight reports of sexual dysfunction, depression, and other severe effects associated with compounded topical finasteride from telehealth companies.
What to Consider Before Using Hims Finasteride
Choosing a hair loss treatment requires careful consideration. For those exploring Hims, here are some key takeaways:
- Oral finasteride is a medically legitimate, FDA-approved product when prescribed by a licensed provider through a reputable service like Hims.
- Compounded topical finasteride carries more risk because it is not FDA-verified for safety or effectiveness. Users should be fully aware of the potential for severe side effects, as highlighted in recent FDA warnings.
- Telehealth offers convenience, but some patients have reported issues with customer service and feeling inadequately informed about risks.
- Always have a thorough consultation. Ensure you discuss all potential side effects and your medical history with the prescribing provider, even if the consultation is remote. This includes providing recent blood pressure readings if required.
- Research alternatives. Other telehealth platforms like Keeps and traditional in-person doctors offer finasteride. Compare pricing, customer satisfaction, and the specific formulations they offer.
Conclusion
In summary, is Hims finasteride legit? The answer is yes and no, depending on the specific product. The oral finasteride (generic Propecia) is a legitimate, FDA-approved medication. The compounded topical finasteride and minoxidil spray, however, has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety and effectiveness, and recent warnings have underscored potential risks. While Hims provides a convenient and discreet way to access these treatments, potential users must be diligent. It's essential to have a clear understanding of the risks associated with both oral and compounded treatments, ensure a thorough consultation with a licensed professional, and weigh the benefits of convenience against the potential for side effects. For more information on the risks, consult the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's official website.
Visit the FDA's website for health alerts and drug information
