Minoxidil

Overview

Minoxidil is a vasodilator medication originally developed to treat high blood pressure. It is now primarily used topically to stimulate hair growth and slow balding in androgenetic alopecia (male and female pattern hair loss).

How Minoxidil works

Minoxidil opens ATP-sensitive potassium channels in vascular smooth muscle cells, causing hyperpolarization and relaxation of blood vessel walls, which widens vessels and lowers blood pressure. When applied to the scalp, its exact mechanism for promoting hair growth is not fully understood, but it is believed to increase blood flow to hair follicles, prolong the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle, stimulate follicle cells, and enlarge miniaturized follicles, leading to thicker and longer hair.

Uses

• Topical treatment of androgenetic alopecia (hereditary hair loss) in men, to stimulate hair regrowth and slow progression of baldness.
• Topical treatment of female pattern hair loss in women.

Side effects

• Common: scalp irritation, itching, redness, dryness, flaking, or temporary increased hair shedding at the start of treatment. Unwanted hair growth on nearby skin (e.g., face) may occur if medication spreads.
• Serious (seek urgent medical attention): chest pain, rapid or irregular heartbeat, fainting, dizziness, sudden unexplained weight gain, swelling of hands or feet, or difficulty breathing. These may indicate systemic absorption and require immediate evaluation.

Precautions

• Do not use if you are allergic to minoxidil or any ingredient in the product.
• Apply only to a healthy, intact scalp; avoid use on sunburned, irritated, or broken skin.
• Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, or other mucous membranes. Wash hands thoroughly after application.
• Consult a doctor before use if you have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney or liver problems.
• Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding only if clearly needed and under medical supervision.
• Do not combine with other topical scalp medications unless advised by a healthcare professional.
• Stop use and seek medical advice if you experience chest pain, rapid heartbeat, or sudden weight gain.