The oral Minoxidil was originally used for treating high blood pressure but patients and health care providers noticed that hair growth was a side effect of this treatment. It leads to the development of topical (solution applied to the skin) Minoxidil for the treatment of male-pattern baldness. But the mechanism of action leading to hair growth is still unknown. Minoxidil must be used indefinitely for continued support of existing hair follicles and the maintenance of any experienced hair regrowth. The mechanism of Minoxidil which promotes hair growth in not fully understood.

Minoxidil contains the nitric oxide chemical moiety and may act as nitric oxide agonist. Minoxidil is a potassium channel opener which causes hyper polarization of cell membranes. Minoxidil is less effective if there is large area of hair loss. In addition, its effectiveness has largely been demonstrated in younger men who have experienced hair loss for less than 5 years. Minoxidil use is indicated for central (vertex) hair loss only. Minoxidil is also a vasodilator. Hypothetically, by widening blood vessels and opening potassium channels, it allows more oxygen, blood, and nutrients to the follicle. This will cause follicles in the telogen phase to shed, which are then replaced by thicker hairs in a new anagen phase.

Dose :

• Minoxidil must apply the scalp at least twice daily till four months to see results.


• Minoxidil should be applied to a dry scalp and left for at least four hours.

Side effects :

• Burning or irritation of the eye,


• Itching, redness or irritation at the treated area,


• Unwanted hair growth on the body,


• Severe allergic reactions like rash, hives, itching,


• Difficulty breathing,


• Tightness in the chest,


• Swelling on hand and feet,


• Swelling on the face and extremitie,


• Irregular heartbeat,


• Cardiac lesions,


• Dry skin, under-eye-circles, and skin redness.

Precautions :

• Minoxidil is for external use only. Dont take this by mouth or apply on other areas of the body.


• It is recommended that women may use only 2% of Minoxidil solution. Also, make sure that you wash your hands after applying the medicine, before touching your face.


• Do not apply this product to a red, irritated, infected, or inflamed scalp. It will increase the amount of the medicine absorbed into your bloodstream which may increase your risk for serious side effects.


• Minoxidil contains alcohol therefore its flammable. Keep it away from fires or flames.


• Minoxidil is not safe for use during pregnancy because its a pregnancy Category C medication, so please contact your doctor before using this.


• The loss of hair will continue more than 2 weeks from using Minoxidil then consult your doctor regarding this.