Search results: “”

Minoxidil Topical

pronounced as (mi nox’ i dill)

Why is this medication prescribed?

Minoxidil is used to stimulate hair growth and to slow balding. It is most effective for people under 40 years of age whose hair loss is recent. Minoxidil has no effect on receding hairlines.

It does not cure baldness; most new hair is lost within a few months after the drug is stopped.

How should this medicine be used?

Minoxidil comes as a liquid to be applied to your scalp. Minoxidil usually is used twice a day.

Follow the directions on your package or prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use minoxidil exactly as directed.

Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than directed by your doctor.

Exceeding the recommended dosage does not produce greater or faster hair growth and may cause increased side effects.

You must use minoxidil for at least 4 months, and possibly for up to 1 year, before you see any effect.

To apply minoxidil topical solution:

• Make sure your hair and scalp are completely dry before applying this medicine.
• Apply the amount prescribed to the area of the scalp being treated, beginning in the center of the area. Follow your doctor’s instructions on how to apply the solution, using the applicator provided.
• Do not shampoo your hair for 4 hours after applying minoxidil.
• Immediately after using this medicine, wash your hands to remove any medicine that may be on them.
• Do not use a hairdryer to dry the scalp after you apply minoxidil solution. Blowing with a hairdryer on the scalp may make the treatment less effective.
• Allow the minoxidil to completely dry for 2 to 4 hours after applying it, including before going to bed. Minoxidil can stain clothing, hats, or bed linen if your hair or scalp is not fully dry after using the medicine.
• Avoid transferring the medicine while wet to other parts of the body. This can occur if the medicine gets on your pillowcase or bed linens or if your hands are not washed after applying minoxidil.

Minoxidil may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

scalp itching, dryness, scaling, flaking, irritation, or burning