Generic
Minoxidil Topical
20 brands available in the market
At a glance
Minoxidil Topical is a vasodilator used for the treatment of hereditary hair loss (male pattern baldness).
Description
Minoxidil Topical is a potassium channel opener that expands blood vessels. When applied to the scalp it increases blood flow providing more nutrition and oxygen to hair follicles and stimulates new hair growth.
Indications
- Androgenetic alopecia (hereditary hair loss)
- Male pattern baldness
- Female pattern baldness
Therapeutic class
Other Scalp Preparations
Pharmacological class
Vasodilator
Pharmacology
Minoxidil topical dilates microcirculation around hair follicles stimulating hair growth.
Mechanism of action
Stimulates hair growth by increasing blood flow to hair follicles.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Topical):
- Male: 2% or 5% solution 1 mL twice daily
- Female: 2% solution 1 mL twice daily
- Maximum daily dose: 2 mL (40 mg)
- Use for 4 months or more
Child Dose: <18 years: Safety and efficacy not established.
Administration
- Apply only to the scalp
- Clean and dry scalp before application
- Apply 1 mL (7 sprays) to affected area
- Use twice daily
Missed dose
If you miss a dose apply it as soon as you remember; skip if its almost time for next dose; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Scalp itching and irritation
- Unwanted hair growth on other areas
- Skin rash
- Edema (swelling)
Precautions & warnings
- For external use only
- Avoid contact with eyes and mouth
- Wash hands thoroughly after application
- Hair fall may increase in first 2 weeks (normal)
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Minoxidil or components
- Untreated or uncontrolled hypertension
- Scalp abnormalities
Drug interactions
- Topical Corticosteroids and Retinoids: Increased absorption
- Guanethidine: Severe orthostatic hypotension (potentially fatal)
Food interactions
Food interaction not found.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Possibly unsafe. Animal studies show harmful effects.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Safe. Does not pass into breast milk in significant amounts.
Pediatric use
Safety and efficacy not established in children under 18 years.
Geriatric use
No specific dose adjustment for elderly.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: No interaction found.
Hepatic Impairment: No interaction found.
Overdose effects
No overdose information available (limited absorption as topical preparation).
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C temperature away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Minoxidil Topical