SHBG Levels and Hair Loss: What Blood Tests Reveal

If you're experiencing hair loss, understanding the underlying causes is crucial. Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG) levels play a significant role in how your body uses hormones like testosterone and DHT, which directly influence hair growth. The good news? You can get a professional assessment and potential treatment for hair loss medication online from an EU-licensed doctor, without the need for an in-person clinic visit. Hi-Doctor offers a convenient €25 online consultation, with a prescription issued in under 24 hours if appropriate, valid at any EU pharmacy. No risk — if the doctor says no, you get your money back.

How it works — get your hair loss medication 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 decides the treatment is not appropriate, 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 your hair loss medication.

Who qualifies for hair loss medication

When you consult with a Hi-Doctor EU-licensed physician for hair loss, they will evaluate your medical history, symptoms, and any previous blood test results (including SHBG levels) to determine if treatments like finasteride, dutasteride, or minoxidil are suitable for you. The doctor looks for specific indicators:

• Androgenetic Alopecia (Pattern Hair Loss): This is the most common form of hair loss treated with these medications, characterised by a receding hairline or thinning on the crown.
• Hormonal Imbalances: Blood test results, especially SHBG, testosterone, and DHT levels, help the doctor understand your hormonal profile.
• Overall Health: The doctor will assess your general health to ensure there are no contraindications that would make these medications unsafe for you. This includes reviewing your liver function, prostate health (for men considering finasteride/dutasteride), and any existing medical conditions or medications you are currently taking.
• Age and Gender: Finasteride and dutasteride are typically prescribed for men. Minoxidil can be used by both men and women. The doctor will confirm the appropriate treatment based on your individual profile.

The doctor's primary concern is your safety and ensuring the treatment is clinically appropriate for your specific situation. If the doctor finds an alternative approach is better, your consultation fee is fully refunded.

What hair loss medication actually does (and doesn't do)

Medications like finasteride, dutasteride, and minoxidil work in different ways to combat hair loss, primarily targeting androgenetic alopecia:

• Finasteride and Dutasteride: These medications are 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors. They reduce the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that shrinks hair follicles in genetically predisposed individuals. By lowering DHT levels, they can slow down hair loss, thicken existing hair, and in some cases, promote new hair growth. Results are typically seen after 3–6 months of consistent use, with maximum benefits appearing after 1–2 years. They do not cure baldness but manage its progression.
• Minoxidil: This topical treatment works by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles and prolonging the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle. It doesn't affect hormones but directly stimulates hair growth. You might see initial results like reduced shedding within 2–4 months, with visible regrowth in 4–6 months. Consistent use is essential to maintain results.

These treatments are effective for many but do not work for all types of hair loss, nor do they guarantee a full head of hair. They are most effective when started early in the hair loss process. The doctor will set realistic expectations based on your individual case.

Side effects and when to stop

Like all medications, hair loss treatments can have side effects. Your Hi-Doctor physician will discuss these with you during your online consultation:

• Finasteride and Dutasteride: Some men may experience sexual side effects such as decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, or ejaculatory problems. These are generally reversible upon stopping the medication. Other less common side effects include breast tenderness or enlargement. If you experience persistent or concerning side effects, you should stop the medication and consult your doctor.
• Minoxidil: Common side effects include scalp irritation, dryness, itching, or redness. Some users may experience an initial increase in hair shedding (known as "minoxidil shedding") before new hair growth begins. If you experience severe irritation, chest pain, rapid heartbeat, or dizziness, stop using minoxidil and seek medical advice.

It is important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully and report any unusual or severe side effects. Never adjust your dosage or stop medication without medical advice.

Why Hi-Doctor vs. walking into a clinic

Choosing Hi-Doctor for your hair loss medication prescription offers distinct advantages over traditional clinic visits:

• Speed: Get your prescription in under 24 hours with Hi-Doctor versus waiting weeks for an in-person appointment.
• Price: A flat €25 consultation fee with Hi-Doctor, compared to variable and often higher private clinic fees. Plus, if the doctor deems treatment inappropriate, you get your money back — no risk.
• Privacy: All consultations and communications happen in your secure Hi-Doctor app, maintaining your privacy without a waiting room or reception desk.
• Convenience: Consult from anywhere in the EU using your phone or computer, eliminating travel time and costs.
• Trust: Join over 50,000 satisfied patients with our 4.8 Trustpilot rating. Our EU-licensed doctors provide individualised, RGPD-compliant care.