I use crushed Proscar pills, Minoxidil 5% and vodka to make my own topical solution. Minoxidil is meant to be absorbed by the scalp and in my experience it does a good job as a carrier solution for the Finasteride. I use some Vodka to reduce the strength of the Minoxidil to about 3,75%.
5% is just too strong for me as it gives me heart palpitations and dark circles under my eyes. With the with vodka diluted solution I am sides free, yet it seems to be doing a good job in maintaining my hair.