Propecia is a brand name for finasteride 1 mg.
Propecia is the original branded product containing finasteride 1 mg. Finasteride is the active ingredient, and generic versions of a medicine contain the same active ingredient at the same dose. Where a generic is available, the difference is mainly the price and the packaging, not the active ingredient.
Forme's medicines are prepared for each patient by a NZ-registered compounding pharmacy on a doctor's prescription. This is a different category from a registered retail product, and your doctor can explain the difference.
What Propecia costs in NZ.
Propecia 1 mg (28 tablets, a one-month supply) currently retails for around $51 through NZ pharmacies. That is before the GP consultation needed to get the prescription, which typically runs $50 to $85 per visit and needs repeating periodically to keep the script current.
Where Forme fits.
Forme's finasteride plans start from $31/month for finasteride alone, with the doctor review, delivery and ongoing prescription renewals included in the price rather than billed separately.
The honest way to compare is the price per month for the same active ingredient at the same dose, including the cost of the consultation, not just the price on the box.
What doesn't change.
Finasteride is prescription-only in New Zealand, whatever the brand or supplier. A doctor has to assess you before it can be supplied, which is why no legitimate provider can sell it without a review.
Worth knowing: Prescription status doesn't depend on the brand. Be cautious of any site suggesting you can skip the doctor review.
Is generic finasteride as good as Propecia?
Generic versions of a medicine contain the same active ingredient at the same dose. Compounded medicines, like those Forme's pharmacy prepares, are a separate category, and your doctor can explain how they differ.
Do I need a prescription for either?
Yes. Finasteride is prescription-only in New Zealand whatever the brand.
Is finasteride funded in NZ?
Pharmac does not fund finasteride for hair loss, so it is an out-of-pocket cost, whether you get it through a GP or a telehealth provider.
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