MINOXIDIL

If hair growth is going to occur with the use of minoxidil, it usually occurs after the medicine has been used for several months and lasts only as long as the medicine continues to be used. Hair loss will begin again within a few months after minoxidil treatment is stopped.

What is Minoxidil?

Minoxidil applied to the scalp is used to stimulate hair growth in adult men and women with alopecia androgenetica. The exact way that this medicine works is not known.

Do I Need a Prescription?

In the U.S., this medicine is available without a prescription. In Canada, this medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription. It is available only in topical form.

Brand Names of Minoxidil.

In the United States:

  • Rogaine Extra Strength For Men
  • Rogaine For Men
  • Rogaine For Women

In Canada:

  • Apo-Gain
  • Gen-Minoxidil
  • Minoxigaine
  • Rogaine

Proper Use of This Medicine.

This medicine usually comes with patient instructions. It is important that you read the instructions carefully.

It is very important that you use this medicine only as directed. Do not use more of it and do not use it more often than your doctor ordered. To do so may increase the chance of it being absorbed through the skin. For the same reason, do not apply minoxidil to other parts of your body. Absorption into the body may affect the heart and blood vessels and cause unwanted effects. Do not use any other skin products on the same skin area on which you use minoxidil.

Storage:

To store this medicine:

  • Keep out of the reach of children.
  • Store away from heat and direct light.
  • Keep the medicine from freezing.
  • Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Be sure that any discarded medicine is out of the reach of children.
  • Flammable: Keep away from fire or flame.

Side Effects of This Medicine.

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

  • Less common - Itching or skin rash (continued)
  • Rare - Acne at site of application, burning of scalp, increased hair loss, inflammation or soreness at root of hair, reddened skin, swelling of face
Signs and symptoms of too much medicine being absorbed into the body:
  • Rare - Blurred vision or other changes in vision; chest pain; decrease of sexual ability or desire ; fast or irregular heartbeat; flushing; headache; lightheadedness ; numbness or tingling of hands, feet, or face; swelling of face, hands, feet, or lower legs; weight gain (rapid)
Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your doctor.