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Minoxidil is a drug that belongs to the class of drugs called vasodilators. Vasodilators are drugs that widen and thus relax the blood vessels, causing fluid to flow more easily through them. It was initially used to treat elevated blood pressure, but its uses have increased with time.
The usage of Minoxidil as a vasodilator caused one significant side effect called Hypertrichosis. Hypertrichosis causes excessive hair to grow anywhere in the body of males and females. This led to the usage of topical Minoxidil to treat male pattern baldness and hair growth.
Minoxidil is used to control blood pressure. Minoxidil is available in oral form as a tablet and also available as topical creams and foams over the counter. Minoxidil has the following uses:
Topical minoxidil is indicated to be used for androgenetic alopecia and is approved by the FDA. It may also be used off-label for the treatment of other hair loss-related conditions like alopecia areata, beard enhancement, chemotherapy-induced alopecia, eyebrow enhancement, frontal fibrosing alopecia, and scarring alopecia.
Minoxidil solution and foam are used to treat male pattern baldness. 2% Minoxidil solution can be beneficial to treat hair thinning in women.
Oral Minoxidil tablets can be prescribed by a doctor to treat hypertension or high blood pressure as it relaxes the blood vessels and lowers the blood pressure.
Oral Minoxidil tablets
Oral minoxidil tablets should only be used when prescribed by a doctor. Minoxidil tablets can be taken with or without a meal as directed by the physician. The tablets can be swallowed with water. Doctors usually prescribe one or two doses per day. It is better if the tablets are taken at around the same time every day.
Topical Minoxidil
Minoxidil is available in the form of a solution or foam. It can be applied directly to the scalp to promote hair growth in men and women. Apply the dosage as prescribed by the physician to the affected area once or twice a day.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use minoxidil for hair growth:
All medications may have certain side effects. The Minoxidil side effects include:
Typical foams and solutions can have the following side effects:
Although rare, serious side effects of oral minoxidil have been reported, like congestive heart failure, ischemic heart disease, pulmonary hypertension, and sodium and fluid retention, a serious allergic reaction to minoxidil is rare. However, if a serious allergic reaction occurs or any other side effects persist, contact your doctor immediately.
Minoxidil works to stimulate hair growth in the following ways:
Minoxidil has the potential to trigger a strong allergic response. Symptoms include:
Keep the following pointers in mind when taking Minoxidil:
If you miss a dose, you may skip it and continue with the regular dosage. Keeping a fair time interval between the two doses If it is time for the next dose, it is fine to skip the missed dosage of Minoxidil. In any case, do not take two doses together to even out the missed dose.
The minoxidil dosage must be carefully monitored. Take the dosage only as prescribed by the doctor. In the event of an overdose, rush to the nearest hospital.
It must be stored at room temperature away from excessive heat, moisture, and sunlight. Minoxidil solutions and foams must be closed tightly and kept away from children and pets. Never flush it down the toilet or pour it down a drain. Read the instructions on the leaflet to carefully dispose of the medicine.
Before using minoxidil for hair growth, it's important to be aware of several warnings and considerations:
Minoxidil can interact with guanethidine, disulfiram, and metronidazole. If you are taking any other medication that may increase your blood pressure, inform your doctor before taking Minoxidil with it. Minoxidil is also known as a blood pressure tablet. You can consult the doctor if it is necessary to take these or other prescribed medications with Minoxidil. The doctors can prescribe a safer alternative in this case.
For topical solution (2% or 5%):
For the treatment of hair loss, oral minoxidil may take up to 6–12 months to show results.
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Minoxidil
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Redensyl
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Uses
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Treat hair loss at the cellular level
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Forms Available
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Oral Tablet
Solutions
Foams
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Shampoo
Serum
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Result
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6-12 months or according to the patient’s condition
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2-4 weeks
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FDA Approved
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Yes
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No
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Minoxidil is widely used to treat several conditions in its various forms. However, it must be noted that the exact mode of action of minoxidil is still not fully understood in a variety of cases. Although topical minoxidil is available without a doctor’s prescription, it is highly recommended that all the medications be used only after consulting with a physician.
Minoxidil is commonly used to treat male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia) and female pattern hair loss. It can also be used for other types of hair loss or thinning, but its effectiveness may vary.
Minoxidil is typically applied topically to the scalp. The specific instructions for application can vary depending on the product and brand. However, in general, you should apply it to clean, dry hair and scalp. It usually comes in liquid or foam form, and you should follow the package instructions, which often involve applying it twice daily. Make sure to apply it evenly to the affected areas of the scalp, and avoid using more than the recommended dose.
Minoxidil has been shown to help regrow hair in some individuals, particularly those with androgenetic alopecia. However, its effectiveness varies from person to person. It may promote hair regrowth in some individuals, while in others, it may simply slow down further hair loss. It's essential to use Minoxidil as directed and be patient, as results may take several months to become noticeable.
The exact mechanism of how Minoxidil works isn't entirely understood. It's believed to dilate small blood vessels in the scalp, which may increase blood flow to hair follicles. This improved blood flow can potentially stimulate hair follicles, leading to hair regrowth or reduced hair loss. It's important to note that Minoxidil is not a cure for hair loss, and its effects may diminish if you stop using it.
Yes, minoxidil is known to promote hair regrowth in some individuals, particularly for those experiencing hereditary hair loss (androgenetic alopecia). It works best on individuals with recent hair loss or thinning at the crown of the scalp. Minoxidil is most effective when used consistently over time, and results may vary among individuals.
Minoxidil is generally safe for daily use when applied according to the recommended dosage and application instructions. However, it's important to follow the specific guidelines provided by your healthcare provider or on the medication label. Using more than the recommended amount or applying it more frequently than directed may increase the risk of side effects.
Yes, you can leave minoxidil on the scalp overnight after applying it. Minoxidil needs time to be absorbed into the scalp to be effective, so leaving it on overnight can maximize its benefits. However, ensure that the scalp is dry before applying minoxidil to avoid excessive absorption.
It's generally recommended to apply minoxidil to a dry scalp and hair. Wet or damp hair may hinder the absorption of minoxidil into the scalp. Therefore, wait until your scalp and hair are completely dry before applying minoxidil. If you need to wash your hair, make sure to dry it thoroughly before applying the medication.
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6691938/ https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-3503/minoxidil-topical/details https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/minoxidil-topical-route/side-effects/drg-20068750?p=1 https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a689003.html