Minoxidil, a topical medication applied to the scalp to stimulate hair growth in cases of hereditary baldness, is marketed in the United States under the brand names of Rogaine, Men's Rogaine, Rogain for Men Extra Strength and Women's Rogaine. It's marketed under different product names in Canada, including Med Minoxidil and Minox. It's available over the counter as a solution or foam. The men's and women's Rogaine formulations contain different concentrations of Minoxidil.
Hair Growth
According to the Rogaine website, it is the number one dermatologist-recommended brand for regrowing hair and produced hair regrowth in 60 percent of women in one study after 32 weeks of treatment. Hair loss may return if you stop taking Rogaine, and you may find that your hair regrows with a different color or texture. Most people can expect to see hair growth within as few as two months, but if you haven't experienced hair growth after four months of use you should discontinue use of Rogaine and consult a doctor.
Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Rogaine include dry, itchy or irritated scalp. You may also experience some increased shedding of hair when you first start using Rogaine According to the Rogaine website, as long as it lasts less than two weeks, this is a good sign that indicates a new hair growth cycle is beginning, and the weakened hairs will be replaced by new healthy ones.
Rare Side Effects
Rare side effects that may result from using Rogaine include increased growth of facial hair, reddened skin or facial swelling, burning, inflammation or soreness of the scalp and acne at the application site.
Serious Side Effects
Also rare but potentially serious side effects that may signal too much medication entering your body include a fast or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, vision changes, headache, dizziness, fainting or light-headedness, tingling or swelling of extremities or face and sudden, unexplained weight gain. Seek medical help immediately if you experience any of these while using Rogaine.
Emergency Situations
Rogaine is poisonous; if you swallow it, contact a Poison Control Center or get other help right away. In case of accidental contact with the eyes, rinse your eyes immediately with copious amounts of cool tap water.
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