What is Minoxidil?
Minoxidil is a topical solution that’s used in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern hair loss); specifically on the top of the scalp (vertex).
This medication is used for people between ages 18-65. Not only does Minoxidil prevent further hair loss, but it also helps regrow hair on top of the scalp.
For more resources, including a full list of the risks and benefits of Minoxidil, please review the product monograph.
How does Minoxidil work?
It’s believed that Minoxidil works by assisting the blood flow to hair follicles on the scalp, which encourages hair to regrow. It must be used for at least 4 months before major changes in hair growth will be noticed. It’s also important to note that these changes aren’t permanent. Any hair regrowth seen during Minoxidil treatments will be lost again within 3-4 months of stopping the medication.
What is Minoxidil used to treat?
Minoxidil is used as a treatment for men experiencing male or female pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia).
Particularly, this treatment is used to target hair loss at the vertex of the head (top of the scalp).
It’s important to note that this is not a permanent treatment for male or female pattern hair loss. All hair that is regrown during the course of its use will be lost again within 3-4 months of stopping Minoxidil treatments, and progressive hair loss will resume.
How do you take Minoxidil?
Minoxidil is supposed to be used twice per day. During each dosage 1ml (20mg) should be applied to the center of the affected area.
The exact application will depend on which application method your healthcare practitioner has suggested for you. There are currently three methods being used for application: Pump-spray applicator, extended spray-tip applicator, and a rub-on applicator.
Follow the instructions listed on your Minoxidil prescription, in order to ensure that you’re applying the medication as intended.
If you have any questions about using your Minoxidil treatments, be sure to ask your Felix healthcare practitioner. They’ll be able to give you any guidance needed to ensure you’re using your medication safely and effectively.
How long does Minoxidil last after you take it?
What are the common side effects of Minoxidil?
The most common side effects that appear from using Minoxidil include:
- Low or high blood pressure
- Chest pain
- Rapid heartbeat
- Persistent local redness or rash
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Faintness
- Dizziness
- Sudden, unexplained weight gain
- Swollen hands or feet
- Depression
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty breathing
If you’re experiencing any severe side effects, be sure to talk to your healthcare practitioner from Felix. They might be able to suggest alternative medications that will work better for you.
Who shouldn't take Minoxidil?
There are a number of people who should avoid using Minoxidil, including:
- People who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
- People who are breastfeeding or planning on breastfeedin
- People over the age of 65
- People under the age of 18
- People who have a hypersensitivity to Minoxidil or its ingredients
- People with treated or untreated high blood pressure
- People who are experiencing baldness that isn’t due to male or female pattern hair loss (i.e. patchy hair loss)
- People with other conditions that impact their scalp (i.e., irritation, inflammation, etc.)
- People with a shaved scalp or broken skin on the scalp
- People using bandages or dressings being used to treat other conditions on their scalp
- People experiencing temporary hair loss, as a result of taking certain medications
- People with secondary syphilis
Further reading
