Applying medication directly to the scalp can slow hair loss and regrow hair in some cases. Topical hair loss medication contains minoxidil, a drug first used to treat high blood pressure, according to the American Hair Loss Association. Minoxidil may be effective in treating hair loss in both men and women.
Identification
After researchers noticed that the oral form of minoxidil caused hair growth as an unexpected side effect, it was adapted for topical use for people who experience androgenetic alopecia. Androgenetic alopecia, also called male and female pattern baldness, causes balding on the crown of the head in men and thinning hair over the entire scalp in women. Minoxidil users apply the medication directly to balding areas of the scalp. The medication is available in 2 and 5 percent solutions.
Using Minoxidil
Doctors recommend applying minoxidil to a dry scalp in the morning and evening. Minoxidil should not be used if you have a scalp irritation or injury or if your scalp is sunburned. Using minoxidil under these conditions can cause too much of the drug to be absorbed by your body, according to Drugs.com. The usual dosage of minoxidil is 1 ml. Drugs.com reports that using more than 2 ml per day can cause dangerous side effects.
Side Effects
Some people may notice scalp redness, flaking or itching when using minoxidil. Headaches may also occur. Drugs.com reports that serious side effects include chest pain, fast or irregular breathing, dizziness, fainting, lightheadedness, trouble breathing, hives, closing of the throat or swelling of the face, lips or tongue. Prompt medical treatment is essential if you experience these serious side effects. Consult your doctor if you want to use minoxidil and are pregnant or are considering becoming pregnant. Nursing mothers should avoid using minoxidil, as the medication may affect the baby.
Effectiveness
The effectiveness of minoxidil varies, with some people experiencing significant improvement and others noticing no effect, according to the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery. Minoxidil works best if treatment begins soon after you notice hair loss and isn't as helpful if you have a large area of hair loss. Minoxidil only works while you use it. If you stop using the medication, you will lose any new hair growth.
Considerations
The American Hair Loss Association reports that the drug is more effective in treating hair loss in women than in men. Although only the 2 percent solution is currently approved for use by women, dermatologists may also prescribe the more effective 5 percent solution for women if the use of the medication is supervised, according to the association.
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