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Minoxidil is a prescription medicine. Hair Loss, Baldness, Alopecia are some of its major therapeutic uses. Other than this, Minoxidil has some other therapeutic uses, which have been discussed ahead.
Medical history of the patient along with age and gender determines the dosage of Minoxidil. The condition it has been prescribed for, and the route of administration also determine the right dosage. This information has been provided in detail in the dosage section.
Minoxidil also has some side effects, the most common being Flushing, Bloating or fullness, Swelling. Besides the aforementioned side effects, there are other adverse effects of Minoxidil as well, which are listed below. These side effects of Minoxidil are usually temporary and subside with the completion of treatment. Consult your doctor if these side effects become worse or stay for a longer duration.
It is also important to note that Minoxidil has a Severe effect for pregnant women and Severe effect on lactating mothers. In addition, Minoxidil's effects on the liver, heart and kidney are discussed below in the Minoxidil related warnings section.
Minoxidil is not recommended if you suffer from certain medical conditions as it can have adverse effects. Heart Failure, Pulmonary Hypertension, Angina are examples of such conditions.
Drug reaction of Minoxidil with other medicines has been reported. Refer to the list below for further details.
You should also be aware that Minoxidil is not safe while driving, and is not addiction.
Minoxidil is used to treat the following -
Other Benefits
This is the usual dosage recommended in most common treatment cases. Please remember that every patient and their case is different, so the dosage can be different based on the disease, route of administration, patient's age and medical history.
Find the right dosage based on disease and age
| Age Group | Dosage |
| Adult |
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| Geriatric |
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Is the use of Minoxidil safe for pregnant women?
Minoxidil can cause severe side effects if taken during pregnancy, so, pregnant women should talk to their doctor before taking it.
Is the use of Minoxidil safe during breastfeeding?
Taking Minoxidil may lead to serious side effects if you are breastfeeding. Minoxidil should not be taken by breastfeeding women unless prescribed by the doctor.
What is the effect of Minoxidil on the Kidneys?
Minoxidil is not harmful for kidneys.
What is the effect of Minoxidil on the Liver?
Information about safety of Minoxidil for the liver is not available since scientific research on this is yet to be done.
What is the effect of Minoxidil on the Heart?
Minoxidil has very mild side effects on the heart.
Minoxidil should not be taken with following medicines due to severe side effects it may cause to patients -
Moderate
If you are suffering from any of the following diseases, you should not take Minoxidil unless your doctor advises you to do so -
Is this Minoxidil habit forming or addictive?
Forming a habit of Minoxidil has not been reported.
Is it safe to drive or operate heavy machinery when consuming?
No, you should not drive or operate heavy machinery after taking Minoxidil as you may feel sleepy.
Is it safe?
Yes, Minoxidil is safe but you must consult your doctor before taking it.
Is it able to treat mental disorders?
No, the use of Minoxidil in mental disorders is not effective.
Interaction between Food and Minoxidil
Taking Minoxidil with food does not cause any problems.
Interaction between Alcohol and Minoxidil
Consuming Minoxidil with alcohol can have many serious effects on your body.
Yes, Minoxidil may cause temporary hair loss for up to 2 weeks initially after starting of the treatment in few cases only. This is due to hair shifting from the resting phase to the growth phase. Consider this as a sign that your old hairs are falling so that new hairs can regrow in their place. If the hair loss continues for more than 2 weeks then you are advised to discuss it with your doctor.
Yes, Minoxidil might be used for telogen effluvium (temporary hair thinning mostly on the top of the scalp). Minoxidil is only approved for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia and you are advised to consult with a doctor first before using this drug for telogen effluvium.
No, Minoxidil is not a steroid. It contains minoxidil which is an antihypertensive vasodilator that is used in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia and management of severe hypertension.
No, Minoxidil should not be discontinued without doctors advice. You are recommended to always consult a doctor before discontinuing this medicine.
No, hair growth by Minoxidil is not permanent. You might have to use Minoxidil continuously to maintain normal hair growth in the affected area.
This medicine data has been created by -
References
KD Tripathi. [link]. Seventh Edition. New Delhi, India: Jaypee Brothers Medical Publishers; 2013: Page No 567
Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA): Department of Health [Internet]. Governmet of Australia; Package leaflet information for the user; Loniten® (minoxidil)
