Patient Information Leaflet: Oral Minoxidil
Read all of this leaflet carefully before you start taking this medicine.
Keep this leaflet. You may need to read it again.
If you have any further questions, ask your doctor, pharmacist, or trichology prescriber.
This medicine has been prescribed for you. Do not pass it on to others as it may harm them, even if their symptoms are the same as yours.
MHRA LICENSED (NO) | FDA APPROVED (NO) | OFF LABEL USE (YES) | DEMONSTRATED (YES)
AVERAGE COST PER DAY USE
What is Oral Minoxidil and What is it Used For?
Oral Minoxidil is a prescription medication used to treat hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) in both men and women. It is an alternative to the more common topical Minoxidil (applied directly to the scalp).
Oral Minoxidil is generally prescribed for patients who may not have responded to topical treatments or who prefer an oral form for hair loss management.
Male pattern hair loss and female pattern hair loss are common forms of hair thinning caused by genetic factors and hormone sensitivity. Oral Minoxidil can help promote hair regrowth and slow down hair loss.
How Does Oral Minoxidil Work for Hair Loss?
Minoxidil was originally developed as a treatment for high blood pressure. When taken orally in low doses, it stimulates hair follicles by:
Increasing blood flow: Minoxidil acts as a vasodilator, expanding blood vessels and increasing blood flow to the scalp, which can enhance nutrient and oxygen delivery to hair follicles.
Prolonging the growth phase: Minoxidil extends the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle, helping hair to grow longer and thicker.
While the exact mechanism of action is not fully understood, oral Minoxidil has been shown to be effective in promoting hair regrowth in individuals with hair thinning or hair loss.
How to Take Oral Minoxidil
Take the prescribed dose of oral Minoxidil as instructed by your healthcare provider. The dose can range from 0.25 mg to 5 mg per day, depending on the severity of hair loss and individual response.
Swallow the tablet whole with water, with or without food, at the same time each day.
Do not take more than the prescribed dose. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at once.
Your prescriber may start you on a low dose and adjust it depending on your response and any side effects. Hair regrowth may take 3 to 6 months to become noticeable, and continuous use is necessary to maintain results.
How Effective is Oral Minoxidil?
Oral Minoxidil has been shown to be effective in promoting hair regrowth in both men and women:
Studies have shown that oral Minoxidil can produce visible improvements in hair density and thickness, particularly in individuals who did not respond well to topical treatments.
Results: Most patients start to see improvements after 3 to 6 months of treatment, with optimal results seen after 6 to 12 months of continuous use.
If oral Minoxidil is stopped, hair loss is likely to resume within 3 to 6 months, as the hair growth cycle returns to its previous state.
Possible Side Effects
As with any medication, oral Minoxidil can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them.
Common Side Effects (affecting 1 in 100 people):
Fluid retention (swelling of the hands, feet, or ankles)
Increased heart rate (tachycardia)
Low blood pressure (hypotension)
Dizziness or light-headedness
Less Common Side Effects (affecting fewer than 1 in 1,000 people):
Hypertrichosis (increased hair growth on areas other than the scalp, such as the face or body)
Headaches
Nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort
Chest pain or palpitations
Rare but Serious Side Effects:
Shortness of breath
Severe swelling or weight gain
Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling of the lips or face)
If any of these serious side effects occur, seek medical attention immediately.
Important Considerations
Heart conditions: Oral Minoxidil is a vasodilator, and patients with pre-existing heart conditions or low blood pressure should consult their healthcare provider before starting treatment.
Hypertrichosis: Increased hair growth on areas of the face or body is a known side effect of oral Minoxidil. This side effect typically resolves after discontinuing the medication.
Regular monitoring: Your healthcare provider may schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress, especially if you are on a higher dose.
Scientific References
Sinclair R, et al. Oral Minoxidil in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia and other forms of hair loss. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 2018;79(3):548-556.
Rossi A, et al. Low-dose oral Minoxidil in the treatment of female pattern hair loss: A retrospective study of 148 patients. International Journal of Dermatology. 2019;58(5):593-598.
Gupta AK, et al. Efficacy and safety of oral Minoxidil for androgenetic alopecia: A systematic review. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology. 2021;35(7):1575-1581.
Need More Information?
If you have any questions or concerns about oral Minoxidil, contact your healthcare provider or expert trichology prescriber for further guidance and personalized advice.
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