The fluctuations and decrease in female hormones associated with menopause result in noticeable hair loss for some women. Typically, menopausal hair loss results in hair becoming thinner and drier all over the scalp.
The only FDA-approved treatment for hair loss in women is minoxidil 2 percent. Trade names include Rogaine. It is available without a prescription.
Minoxidil for Hair Loss
Minoxidil is a topical solution that is applied directly to the scalp. It is sold in 2 percent and 5 percent solutions. The 5 percent solutions are FDA-approved for men only, although some physicians recommend this strength for women as well.
History of Minoxidil
Minoxidil was originally used as an oral high blood pressure medication, with a trade name of Loniten. Patients taking minoxidil experienced side effects that included excessive hair growth.
Research conducted in the 1980s showed that applying a solution of minoxidil directly to the scalp also stimulated hair growth without being absorbed in large enough amounts to cause unwanted side effects. This led to the development of topical minoxidil hair loss products like Rogaine.
In 1988, Rogaine 2 percent topical solution was first sold for men only, with a prescription. In 1992, the 2 percent solution was launched for women, with a prescription. In 1990, Rogaine 2 percent was approved for over-the-counter sales, and in 1997, the 5 percent solution was approved for over-the-counter use by men. In 2006, a 5 percent foam formulation became available over the counter, for men.
.
Effectiveness
Minoxidil does not grow new hair. It works by stimulating hair follicles and prolonging hair's growth phase to produce denser, longer hair.
Minoxidil has to be used for several months before any results can be expected, and effects last only while it continues to be used. Only a small minority of women using minoxidil seem to realize significant results.
Clinical studies of minoxidil use by women aged 18-45 years with mild to moderate hair loss resulted in 19 percent of women reporting moderate hair regrowth and 40 percent reporting minimal regrowth after using minoxidil for eight months. This compares with 7 percent reporting moderate hair regrowth after using a placebo for eight months Seven percent reported moderate regrowth, and 33 percent reported minimal regrowth.
Clinical trials have also shown that the 5 percent minoxidil solution is significantly more effective than the 2 percent solution in protecting and regrowing hair in women.
The American Hair Loss Association makes the following statement about the effectiveness of minoxidil in women: "The American Hair Loss Association recognizes the limitations of topical minoxidil treatment in the fight against female androgenic alopecia--female pattern baldness. Therefore we recommend that you seek out the advice of an informed hair loss specialist."
Side Effects
The most common side effect of topical minoxidil is an itchy scalp. It may also cause dandruff. Ironically, hair loss is also a fairly common side effect. Allergic reactions to minoxidil or the nonactive Rogaine ingredient, propylene glycol, have been reported. It can also increase facial hair growth in women.
The side effects of oral minoxidil are much more problematic and may include swelling of the face and extremities, heart beat disturbances, light-headedness and heart damage.
Toxicity
Minoxidil is highly toxic to cats. Initial signs of exposure include lethargy and generally begin within 12 hours of skin contact. Heart damage occurs 3-to-4 days following exposure and may result in death.
Member Comments