If you have bald spots or thinning hair, your doctor may recommend that you use minoxidil, a topical medication that can help regrow hair and slow hair loss. The International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery reports that minoxidil was first used to treat high blood pressure, but is now also used to treat hair loss because of the drug’s ability to spur the growth rate of hair. Minoxidil is available in both prescription and over-the-counter versions.
Who Can Use Minoxidil?
Both men and women use minoxidil, although the drug may be more effective in treating hair loss in women. The International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery reports that the two percent preparation of minoxidil has been shown to stimulate hair growth in approximately 30 percent of male patients, with a slightly higher rate in women.
Beginning Treatment
Minoxidil is most effective if you begin using it when hair loss first occurs and regular use may prevent bald spots of areas or thinning hair from becoming larger. The International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery reports that use of the drug may prevent progression of areas of hair loss in both female and male pattern baldness. If you are young and experiencing hair loss, starting minoxidil can help preserve the healthy hair you need if you are considering having a hair transplant in the future.
Applying Minoxidil
Minoxidil is available in two and five percent solutions and is usually applied directly to the balding areas of the scalp each morning and evening. The five percent solution is considered to be more effective than the two percent solution in halting hair loss and stimulating new growth in both men and women, according to the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery. Your doctor will recommend a particular solution depending on the cause and type of hair loss you experience.
Effects
You will need to take minoxidil for several months until new growth is evident. Initially, new hair growth may be disappointing, as it is often soft and barely visible. As you continue treatment, hair will begin to look more like your existing hair. Over time, you may develop a tolerance to minoxidil and the drug may be less effective in treating hair loss.
Warning
Using minoxidil on a sunburned, irritated or damaged scalp can cause too much of the drug to be absorbed by your body and should be avoided, according to Drugs.com. Minoxidil must be used on a continuous basis or hair loss will occur. In some people, minoxidil can cause irritation or itching of the scalp or dandruff. Other potential side effects include fast heartbeat, irregular heartbeat, chest pain, fainting and dizziness. If you experience any of these side effects, seek medical assistance immediately.
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