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Minoxidil solution

Minoxidil for pattern hair loss

Minoxidil was originally marketed in a tablet form for the treatment of high blood pressure. One of the side effects of this treatment was unwanted hair growth. This side effect promoted researchers to produce a topical solution for treating hair loss.

Minoxidil solution is used in the treatment of male pattern hair loss in men, and female pattern hair loss in women. It is occasionally useful for other forms of hair loss (alopecia), including alopecia areata.

Minoxidil is marketed in New Zealand as Rogaine™ Topical Solution (5%) and Headway™ Topical Solution (2% and 5%).

Minoxidil solution dilates small blood vessels. When applied to the affected areas of the scalp twice daily it has been shown to stimulate hair regrowth. How minoxidil restores hair growth is uncertain. The effect is seen after approximately 4 months of treatment. Generally hair growth is thinner and finer than the original hair.

If treatment is stopped, the pretreatment appearance will normally return within 3 or 4 months. Adverse effects are usually limited to local irritation, but contact allergy to minoxidil or propylene glycol (the main component of the solution) occur rarely. Users should take care to avoid not to drip the solution on to the forehead, where unwanted hair growth might occur. Internal effects are not likely as there is minimal absorption into the system.