What is minoxidil topical?
The exact way that minoxidil topical works is not known.
Minoxidil topical is used to treat male pattern baldness.
Minoxidil topical may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication
guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking minoxidil topical?
Do not use minoxidil topical if the skin on your scalp is damaged, irritated, or
sunburned. This may allow more of the medication to be absorbed by your body, which could be
dangerous.
Before using minoxidil topical tell your doctor if you have heart disease. Minoxidil absorbed
by the body can affect the heart.
Minoxidil topical is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known
whether minoxidil topical will be harmful to an unborn to baby. Do not use this medication without
first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
Minoxidil may affect a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without first talking to
your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take minoxidil topical?
Use minoxidil topical exactly as directed by your doctor or as directed in the package
labeling. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to
explain them to you.
Dry your hair and scalp before applying minoxidil topical.
Apply the prescribed amount, usually 1 mL, to the affected areas of the scalp. Minoxidil
topical is usually applied twice daily, in the morning and at night.
Wash your hands after applying minoxidil topical.
Avoid getting this medication in the eyes, nose, or mouth. If this occurs, rinse the area with
water.
Do not use minoxidil topical if the skin on your scalp is damaged, irritated, or
sunburned. This may allow more of the medication to be absorbed by your body, which could be
dangerous.
Do not use more than 2 mL of minoxidil topical in one day. More medication will not
increase or hasten hair growth but it may cause dangerous side effects.
Do not use this medication on any part of your body other than your scalp. Application to
other body parts can be dangerous.
It may take 4 months or more before new hair growth is seen. New hair is usually soft,
colorless, and barely visible. With further treatment, the hair will become similar in color and
thickness to existing hair.
If no hair growth is seen after 4 months of treatment, discontinuation of minoxidil topical
should be considered.
If treatment is discontinued, new hair growth will usually be shed within a few months.
Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose of minoxidil topical?
Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose,
skip the dose you missed and use only the next regularly scheduled dose.
Do not
use a double dose of this medication.
Where can I get more information about minoxidil topical?
Your pharmacist has information about minoxidil topical written for health professionals that you may read.
What are the possible side effects of minoxidil topical?
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop using minoxidil topical
and seek emergency medical attention:
-
an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat;
swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
-
chest pain;
-
irregular or very fast heartbeats;
-
dizziness or lightheadedness; or
-
fainting.
Continue to use minoxidil topical and talk to your doctor when it is
convenient if you experience
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your
doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What is the most important information I should know about minoxidil topical?
Do not use minoxidil topical if the skin on your scalp is damaged, irritated, or
sunburned. This may allow more of the medication to be absorbed by your body, which could be
dangerous.
Do not use this medication on any part of your body other than your scalp. Application to
other body parts can be dangerous.
Do not use other topical products on your scalp during treatment with minoxidil topical,
unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
What should I avoid while taking minoxidil topical?
Do not use this medication on any part of your body other than your scalp. Application
to other body parts can be dangerous.
Do not use other topical products on your scalp during treatment with minoxidil topical,
unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
What other drugs will affect minoxidil topical?
Do not use other topical products on your scalp during treatment with minoxidil topical,
unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with minoxidil topical or affect your
condition. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before using any prescription or over-the-counter
medicines, including herbal products.
What happens if I have an overdose of minoxidil topical?
