Minoxidil

Overview

Results take about 4 months, and new hair is lost if you stop.

What it's used for

• Male and female pattern hair loss (topical)
• Severe high blood pressure (pills)
• Off-label: hair loss (low-dose pills)

How to take it

• Topical: apply to a dry scalp as the label says. Wash hands after.
• Some shedding in the first weeks is normal.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

• Scalp itching or flaking
• Unwanted facial hair
• Shedding at first

Warnings

• Pills (Loniten) carry a boxed warning for fluid buildup and heart effects and are used only with other blood pressure medicines.
• Keep topical minoxidil away from pets; it's very toxic to cats.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

• Pills add to the effect of other blood pressure medicines.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Not used in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Apply it when you remember, then go back to your usual schedule. Don't apply extra to make up for it.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

• Pattern hair loss (male or female pattern)
• Common hair loss or shedding
• High blood pressure (hypertension)