Why generic finasteride for hairloss not effective as Propecia?

Question

I started brand name Propecia 6 months ago and started to see noticeable hair grow within 3 months. I learned to cut the cheaper generic finasteride 5% to save money. I notice less sexual side effects on generic. After taking it for 2 months I started to notice hairloss again. It is now so obvious and there is no doubt it is not working.

They are a few FDA approved generic medications said to be the same, but only find out the difference after patient complains. I cut the pill in to 4 rather than 5 and taking it daily without missing a dose. So the dosage is definitely sufficient. I filled the prescription from Costco, so the pill should be good. It is a blue color pill with F9 on one side and the other side has a logo look like a big and a small C.

If this is the generic made in US or the one made in India? If anyone have the same experience? Can any expert confirm that the finasteride generic is 100% the same as brand name? What about Proscar? Thank you!!!

Answer 1

There is no generic Propecia available legally in the US. I realize other countries may manufacture finasteride in 1mg strength, but Propecia is still under patent protection in much of the western world.

There is a generic finasteride available in 5mg strength — any pharmacy should have it, provided that your doctor prescribes you 5mg finasteride. Some patients cut the 5mg tablet into 1/4ths to save money. There may be problems in cutting down the pill into smaller pieces and the partial tablets will have the problem of hydrating with humidity so do not cut more than one at a time (every 4 days) and keep it in a sealed container. Be sure that the company that makes it is legit and you are getting what you are buying!

Answer 2

I don 't Know, but Think you Are Correct, Money?

EDIT: if I Remember Correctly, the Only Difference In Proscar and Propecia, is the Dose/Pill, Proscar is 5X (5 mg) that of Propecia, Whereas Propecia is 1 mg.