Minoxidil
Introduction To Minoxidil
Minoxidil belongs to a class of drugs known as vasodilators. It is used to promote hair growth in men with male pattern baldness.
Minoxidil should only be applied directly to the scalp area in the amount and in the way specified on the label or by your doctor. Clean and dry your scalp before using it. It may take approximately 2- 4 months before you notice any hair growth. The first growth may be soft, colourless, and barely visible. Using more than recommended will not speed up hair growth and may increase the likelihood of side effects. This medication must be used continuously to maintain hair growth. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or worsen after using it for 4 to 6 months.
The most common side effects of this medicine include itching, headache, excessive hair growth, rash, and dermatitis. In case of accidental application in other areas, it may result in unwanted hair growth. Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water if you get it in your eyes, mouth, or broken skin. Talk to your doctor if you are bothered by the side effects or if they do not go away.
People under 18 or over 65 should not usually use Minoxidil. It may also not be appropriate if your hair loss is due to medications (such as chemotherapy) or any nutritional deficiency. You should also not use this medicine if you have high blood pressure or use other creams or lotions to treat other scalp conditions. Talk to your doctor if you have heart disease or blood circulation problems.
Uses of Minoxidil
- Treatment of Hair loss
Benefits of Minoxidil
Treatment of Hair loss
Minoxidil is a medicine used to treat common hereditary hair loss. It can
prevent further hair loss and help hair to re-grow. It works by increasing
blood flow to the hair follicles on your scalp, which prevents hair cell death
and also enhances new hair growth. It is most effective for baldness or
thinning at the top of the scalp but less effective at the front or for
receding hairline.
Benefits are less likely if you have been bald for many years or have a large area of hair loss. Minoxidil is not suitable for sudden or unexplained hair loss. It is considered a safe medicine. There are separate products for men and women and you should follow your doctor’s instructions carefully while using Minoxidil. Regrowth of hair improves your appearance, boosts your confidence, and enhances your social life. Use it regularly to maintain hair growth and to get the maximum benefits. Consult your doctor if you notice any changes in the hair growth while using Minoxidil.
Side effects of Minoxidil
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Common side effects of Hairouse
- Itching
- Chest pain
- Headache
- Hypertrichosis (excessive hair growth)
- Rash
- Dermatitis
- Hypersensitivity
- Weight gain
- Fluid retention
- Tachycardia
How to use Minoxidil
Use this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Check the label for directions before use.
How Minoxidil works
Minoxidil is a potassium channel opener. Its vasodilation action expands the blood vessels. Therefore, when it is applied to the scalp, it helps to increase blood flow. This increased blood flow provides more nutrition and oxygen to the hair follicles, which prevents hair cell death and also enhances new hair growth. This is how it works to treat your alopecia (hair loss).
Quick tips
- Wash your hands before and after application.
- It should only be applied directly to the scalp. If Minoxidil accidentally comes in contact with your eyes, nose, or mouth, flush the area thoroughly with cool tap water.
- Do not shampoo your hair or use a hairdryer for 4 hours after applying Minoxidil as it can reduce the effectiveness of the medicine.
- During the first 2 weeks of application, your hair fall may increase. This is normal and is a sign that Minoxidil is working.
- Take care that Minoxidil does not trickle down onto your face as it may cause undesirable facial hair growth.
Safety Advice
PregnancyCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Can I take Minoxidil if I’m pregnant?
Minoxidil may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Although there are limited studies in humans, animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and any potential risks before prescribing it to you. Please consult your doctor.
BreastfeedingCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Can I take Minoxidil if I’m breastfeeding?
Minoxidil is probably unsafe to use during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug may pass into the breastmilk and harm the baby. Minoxidil is not recommended for use in women.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is the hair growth by Minoxidil treatment permanent?
You have to continue applying Minoxidil for continued hair growth. If you stop using Minoxidil, the regrown hair may disappear after 3-4 months and balding or hair loss may restart.
Q. How long does it take to see results with Minoxidil?
Since hair growth is a slow process, it may take some time before you see new hair growth after starting the treatment with Minoxidil. You need to use Minoxidil for 4 months to see its effects.
Q. Do I need to wash my hair every day when using Minoxidil?
No, it is not required to shampoo your hair every day before applying Minoxidil. However, if you shampoo your hair, make sure your scalp is dry before using Minoxidil.
Q. How often should Minoxidil be applied?
The general recommendation is that Minoxidil should be used twice daily. Follow your doctor's instructions and take it in the dose and duration advised by your doctor.
Q. Can Minoxidil be used for beard growth?
No, Minoxidil should not be used for beard growth. It is indicated only for growth of hair on scalp in patients with a family history of hair loss.
References
Written By:
Dr Advikka Ridhy
MBBS
RMO, Aster MIMS
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