by Dr. Manura Nanayakkara

Created on: July 20, 2010   Last Updated: August 30, 2010

Minoxidil is originally developed as an antihypertensive drug. But later it was found to have hair growing properties. So now this drug is mainly used as a prescription only treatment for male pattern hair loss.

Overview

Excessive male pattern hair loss (Alopecia) is a problem for some men. Minoxidil shampoo preparation is prescribed for this condition. It won’t treat the condition and hair growth is limited as long as it is used. Commonest brand is Regain® by the Mcneil pharmaceuticals. Even women can use this medication, if they have male pattern hair loss.

In male pattern hair loss hair follicles are getting smaller over time due to circulating androgens. This causes thinning and eventual loss of hair. Minoxidil increase the size of existing hair follicles. So it is strengthening weak hair follicles. But it does not produce new hair follicles. Minoxidil acts by dilating vessels and the oral drug is a potent antihypertensive. But how it acts to increase the hair growth is not fully understood.

How is it used to treat male pattern hair loss?

Minoxidil preparation should be applied topically to the scalp. Twice daily application to the affected areas is necessary for the best results. It should be applied to the affected areas of the scalp using the applicator provided by the company. It should not be applied onto damaged or inflamed areas. It should not be applied to other areas of the body as well.

 Prior to the application hair and the affected areas must be dry. After applying Minoxidil fingers should be washed by the person. If a spray preparation is used, inhalation of the spray mist must be avoided.

 If you have Pheochromocytoma, heart problems, acute porphyria and kidney failure then you should consult your doctor before using Minoxidil. It should not be used in pregnant and breast feeding.

 What are the side effects?

 Local irritation is the commonest side effect of topical preparation. Faintishness can occur if the drug enters into the blood circulation. Some people complain of edema, chest pain, palpitations and low blood pressure. These side effects are also due to excessive amount of drug entering into the blood circulation.

 Some people can have headache, dizziness, weakness, lightheadedness and vertigo. Anxiety and mental depression are reported rarely.

 Weight gain can be a troublesome side effect in long term treatment. But it is rare. Some people may get breast tenderness with this medication. Gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea and vomiting can occur in certain people.

 Very rarely impotence is reported. Some people may rarely report bone and joint pains with Minoxidil therapy.

How is it used as an Anti-hypertensive drug?

Oral drug is mainly used in resistant hypertension, where other drugs fail. It is available as tablets. Usually it is co - prescribed with other anti - hypertensives.

Pregnancy

Increased hair growth in new born is reported with this medication. It is usually not advisable to use this medication during pregnancy.

Sources

BNF

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