Minoxidil

Minoxidil for pattern hair loss

Minoxidil was originally marketed in a tablet form for the treatment of high blood pressure. One of the side effects of this treatment was unwanted hair growth. This side effect promoted researchers to produce a topical solution for treating hair loss. It is available in formulations such as foam, spray and even tablet form.

Topical minoxidil is used in the treatment of male pattern hair loss in men, and female pattern hair loss in women. It is occasionally useful for other forms of hair loss, including alopecia areata, and after hair replacement surgery or chemotherapy.

It is applied to the affected area of the scalp once or twice daily for a minimum of 6 months. If it is found effective, it may be continued long term.

What are the side effects of minoxidil solution?

Local irritation may occur, most often resulting in itching or stinging. Contact allergy to minoxidil or propylene glycol (the main component of the solution) occurs rarely, and results in dermatitis.

Unwanted hair growth might occur ( hypertrichosis), for example if the solution is dripped onto the forehead.

Internal effects are not likely as there is minimal absorption into the system. However, hair growth in distant sites such as the arms, chest and lower back has occasionally been reported when the 5% solution has been used.

Minoxidil is best avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding (Pregnancy Category C, i.e., Drugs that, owing to their pharmacological effects, have caused, or maybe suspected of causing harmful effects on the human fetus or neonate without causing malformations. These effects may be reversible.)

What happens if minoxidil treatment is stopped?

If treatment is stopped, the pre-treatment appearance will normally return within 3 or 4 months. If it is stopped after several years of use, the hair that was genetically programmed to be lost during that time will fall out.