Minoxidil topical

ROGAINE

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What it isTopical KATP-channel opener that promotes follicular growth; androgenetic alopecia.

Why this oneThe famous side effect turned indication: the oral vasodilator's hypertrichosis, bottled. Follicular sulfotransferase activates it to minoxidil sulfate at the target.

What limits itInitial shedding, scalp irritation, and unwanted facial hair can end the trial; gains recede after discontinuation.

FDA-approved for

androgenetic alopecia (1988)

FDA label

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FDA dosing	Population	Start	Target	Max
Regrow hair on top of scalp (vertex only)	Men ≥18 yr	1 mL to scalp hair-loss area BID	1 mL BID	1 mL BID — using more or more often will not improve results

Renal Undefined

Hepatic Undefined

Not intended for frontal baldness or receding hairline

Instructions

Apply 1 mL with dropper directly onto the scalp in the hair-loss area, twice a day
Continued use necessary to increase and keep regrowth, or hair loss begins again
Results may appear at 2 months (BID use); some men need ≥4 months
External use only; flammable — keep away from fire/flame; do not apply to other body parts; avoid eye contact (rinse with cool water if contact)

Contraindications

Women (this 5% men's product)
Under 18 years of age; do not use on babies and children
Hair loss pattern different from carton illustration, frontal/receding hairline loss, sudden/patchy loss, unknown cause, or no family history of hair loss
Scalp that is red, inflamed, infected, irritated, or painful
Concurrent use of other medicines on the scalp

Cautions

Ask a doctor before use if you have heart disease
Stop and ask a doctor: chest pain, rapid heartbeat, faintness or dizziness; sudden unexplained weight gain; swelling of hands/feet; scalp irritation or redness; unwanted facial hair growth; no regrowth in 4 months
Some users experience changes in hair color and/or texture
May be harmful if used when pregnant or breast-feeding
If swallowed, get medical help or contact Poison Control immediately

Adverse reactions

Scalp irritation/redness
Unwanted facial hair growth
Cardiovascular: chest pain, rapid heartbeat, faintness, dizziness; fluid signs (weight gain, hand/foot swelling) — stop-use triggers

Pregnancy May be harmful if used when pregnant (OTC warning)

Lactation May be harmful if used when breast-feeding (OTC warning)

NO BOXED WARNINGS