Brand vs. Generic Hair Loss Treatments: What's the Difference?

Looking to get a Finasteride or Dutasteride prescription online in the EU? You've come to the right place. Hi-Doctor connects you with EU-licensed doctors who can assess your suitability for hair loss treatments like Finasteride, Dutasteride, or Minoxidil. Yes, you can get a prescription through a licensed EU doctor, and here's how. For just €25, you can have your case reviewed, receive a prescription in under 24 hours if appropriate, and pick up your medication at any pharmacy in the EU.

How it works — get your hair loss treatment prescription in 4 steps

1. Fill the online medical questionnaire (2–3 minutes) and pay the €25 consultation fee.
2. A licensed EU doctor reviews your case in private. If the doctor determines the treatment is not appropriate for you, your €25 is refunded automatically — no risk.
3. If approved, you receive a REMPE electronic prescription (PDF file) in your Hi-Doctor account and by email within 24 hours.
4. Print the PDF or show it on your phone — present it at any pharmacy in the EU to collect the medication.

Who qualifies for hair loss treatments

When you complete your medical questionnaire, our EU-licensed doctors look for several key factors to ensure the treatment is safe and effective for you. Generally, Finasteride and Dutasteride are prescribed for men experiencing male pattern baldness. Minoxidil can be used by both men and women. The doctor will assess your medical history, current medications, and specific hair loss pattern. Contraindications for Finasteride and Dutasteride include pregnancy (for women), liver disease, and certain prostate conditions. The doctor always remains the gatekeeper, ensuring your safety and the appropriateness of the treatment.

What Finasteride, Dutasteride, and Minoxidil actually do (and don't do)

Finasteride and Dutasteride work by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a primary cause of male pattern baldness, shrinking hair follicles. By reducing DHT levels, these medications can slow down hair loss and, in many cases, promote new hair growth. Results typically appear after 3-6 months of consistent use, with full effects seen around 12 months. They do not cure baldness, but manage the condition.

Minoxidil is a topical solution that you apply directly to the scalp. Its exact mechanism isn't fully understood, but it is believed to widen blood vessels, increasing blood flow to hair follicles and extending the growth phase of hair. It can stimulate dormant follicles and thicken existing hair. Minoxidil works best for vertex balding and generally shows results within 4-6 months.

Neither medication offers instant results, and consistency is key for effectiveness.

Side effects and when to stop

Like all medications, Finasteride, Dutasteride, and Minoxidil can have side effects. With Finasteride and Dutasteride, some men may experience sexual side effects such as decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, or ejaculation disorders. These are often reversible upon stopping the medication. Rarely, mood changes or breast tenderness can occur. With Minoxidil, common side effects include scalp irritation, dryness, itching, and unwanted hair growth on other parts of the body if not applied carefully. If you experience severe side effects, chest pain, dizziness, or sudden weight gain, stop the medication and consult a doctor immediately. Your Hi-Doctor EU-licensed doctor will discuss potential side effects with you during the assessment and advise on when to discontinue treatment.

Why Hi-Doctor vs. walking into a clinic

Choosing Hi-Doctor for your hair loss treatment prescription offers unparalleled convenience and efficiency compared to traditional clinic visits. Imagine: no waiting weeks for an appointment, no travel time, and no awkward reception desk conversations. With Hi-Doctor, everything happens in your private online account. Your case is reviewed by an EU-licensed doctor in under 24 hours, not weeks. The consultation fee is a flat €25, significantly more affordable than variable private clinic fees. Your privacy is paramount, with all communications through an RGPD-compliant, auditable chat within your account. We've served over 50,000 patients and boast a 4.8 Trustpilot rating, proving our commitment to discreet, effective care.