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Minoxidil

Malignant Hypertension, Alopecia

DRUG STATUS

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Approvals

US(FDA), UK(BNF)

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Essential Medicine

NO

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Teratogenicity

Unlisted

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Pharmaceutical Class

Arteriolar Vasodilator

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Drug Ingredient

Minoxidil

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Summary

  • Minoxidil is primarily used for treating hair loss and promoting hair growth, commonly in cases of male and female pattern baldness. It is also used as an oral medication to treat severe high blood pressure, especially when other treatments are ineffective.

  • Minoxidil is a medicine that widens your blood vessels, making it easier for blood to flow. This lowers blood pressure. It also helps blood flow to important organs like your kidneys. In terms of hair growth, you should notice new hair growth or less hair shedding after a few months.

  • For hair loss treatment, men typically use 1 mL of 5% solution or foam twice daily, while women use 1 mL of 2% solution or 5% foam once daily. For severe high blood pressure, the starting dose is 2.5-5 mg once daily, adjusted by a doctor.

  • Common side effects include scalp irritation, itching, redness, or dryness, unwanted facial hair growth, especially in women, and dizziness or lightheadedness. Rarely, it can cause rapid heartbeat or chest pain.

  • Minoxidil should be used cautiously during breastfeeding and avoided during pregnancy. It should not be used by those with scalp infections or open wounds. It can cause dizziness, so avoid driving if you feel lightheaded. Elderly people may be more sensitive to side effects.

Indications and Purpose

What is Minoxidil used for?

Minoxidil is used for:

  • Hair loss treatment: To promote hair growth and slow down hair loss (commonly used for male and female pattern baldness).
  • Severe high blood pressure: As an oral medication to treat hypertension, especially when other medications are ineffective.

How does Minoxidil work?

Minoxidil is a medicine that widens your blood vessels, making it easier for blood to flow. This lowers blood pressure. While it helps blood flow to important organs like your kidneys, it can also speed up your heart and cause your body to hold onto extra salt and water. That's why doctors often give other medicines alongside it to counter those side effects. Your body absorbs minoxidil easily, and it's mostly gone from your system within a few hours.

Is Minoxidil effective?

Yes, it is effective for many people in promoting hair regrowth and slowing hair loss, though results can vary.

How does one know if Minoxidil is working?

You should notice new hair growth or less hair shedding after a few months. If no improvement is seen after 4–6 months, it may not be effective for you.

Directions for Use

What is the usual dose of Minoxidil?

The usual dose of minoxidil:

Topical (for hair loss):

  • Men: 1 mL of 5% solution or foam twice daily.
  • Women: 1 mL of 2% solution or 5% foam once daily.

Oral (for severe high blood pressure):

  • Starting dose: 2.5–5 mg once daily, adjusted by a doctor.

Always follow your doctor’s or product instructions.

How do I take Minoxidil?

Minoxidil is a medicine that lowers blood pressure. It's often given with other blood pressure medicines. Adults usually start with a small dose and it might be increased if needed. Kids get a different, smaller dose based on their weight. Doctors will increase the dose slowly, waiting several days between increases. The instructions don't say if you should take it with food or not.

For how long do I take Minoxidil?

Minoxidil lowers blood pressure. If you take it just once, the effect lasts about three days. If you take it every day, how quickly it works best depends on how much you take. A smaller dose takes longer to fully work (a week), a bigger dose works faster (three days).

How long does it take for Minoxidil to start working?

It may take 2–4 months to see visible results for hair growth

How should I store Minoxidil?

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.

Warnings and Precautions

Who should avoid taking Minoxidil?

  • Those with scalp infections or open wounds.
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women (for topical use).

Can I take Minoxidil with other prescription drugs?

Generally, yes. However, consult your doctor, especially if using blood pressure medications or heart-related drugs.

Can I take Minoxidil with vitamins or supplements?

Yes, there are no known interactions with vitamins or supplements, but avoid excessive vitamin A.

Can Minoxidil be taken safely while pregnant?

Topical Minoxidil is not recommended during pregnancy. Oral Minoxidil should also be avoided.

Can Minoxidil be taken safely while breastfeeding?

opical Minoxidil should be used cautiously while breastfeeding. Oral Minoxidil is not recommended.

Is Minoxidil safe for the elderly?

Yes, it can be used by the elderly, but they may be more sensitive to side effects like dizziness.

Is it safe to exercise while taking Minoxidil?

Yes, it is safe to exercise, but avoid excessive sweating on your scalp shortly after applying Minoxidil to ensure effectiveness.

Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Minoxidil?

Yes, alcohol does not interfere with Minoxidil.