Verbatim response from ChatGPT
Short answer: generally the absolute cheapest legit route is to buy generic finasteride through a local or mail-order pharmacy using a coupon (GoodRx or Blink Health) or a big-box pharmacy (Walmart, Costco) — that often beats the DTC subscriptions. If you want a convenient telehealth subscription, Keeps is commonly the lowest-cost direct-to-consumer option.
Details and options
- Keeps — low monthly price on generic finasteride, automatic refills, telehealth consult included, discreet shipping. Good balance of price and convenience for a subscription.
- Hims — similar model to Keeps; prices are competitive and it’s widely used and reputable.
- Roman (Ro) — another established DTC telehealth + subscription option with competitive pricing and flexible plans.
- Lemonaid Health — telehealth clinic that tends to offer simple pricing for a 90‑day supply; good if you want a single, low-cost refill without a recurring subscription.
- GoodRx / Blink Health — not a telehealth service but a coupon/discount network. Use a GoodRx or Blink coupon to buy generic finasteride at local pharmacies (Walmart, CVS, Rite Aid) or mail-order — this often gives the lowest per-pill price.
- Walmart Pharmacy / Costco Pharmacy / Sam’s Club — large pharmacy chains often have the lowest cash prices for generics if you prefer in-person pickup or mail-order; Costco is especially cheap if you have membership.
Why these choices
- Telehealth subscriptions (Keeps, Hims, Roman) bundle a medical consult with auto-refills and discreet shipping — convenient, predictable monthly cost.
- GoodRx/Blink + local pharmacy is usually cheapest per pill because you’re purchasing the generic drug without markup for a branded subscription service.
- Big-box pharmacies and warehouse pharmacies tend to have low retail prices and reliable supply.
Practical tips
- Compare total cost (consult fee, shipping, monthly price, dose/quantity). Many DTC services advertise low monthly prices but those are for specific quantities or with auto-refill.
- Choose generic finasteride (1 mg tablet) — it’s what most prescribers and sellers use for hair loss and is much cheaper than brand-name Propecia.
- A 90‑day supply often lowers the per-month cost.
- Use promo codes — DTC services often run discounts for first-time buyers.
- Confirm the service includes a clinician review — finasteride requires a prescription and a proper medical screening.
- Safety: finasteride has possible sexual side effects and is contraindicated in women who are or may become pregnant. Discuss risks and interactions with a clinician.
If you want, tell me your ZIP code (or country) and whether you prefer mail delivery or local pickup, and I’ll compare current prices/options for you.