Generic Name

Minoxidil Topical

Precaution

Before using Minoxidil, the user should determine that the scalp is normal and healthy. Patients with known cardiovascular disease or cardiac arrhythmia should contact a physician before using Minoxidil. Minoxidil contains alcohol, which will cause burning and irritation of the eye. In the event of accidental contact with sensitive surfaces (eye, abraded skin and mucous membranes) the area should be bathed with large amount of cool tap water. Lactation: following topical application of the drug is not known, but the drug has been shown to distribute into milk following oral administration in lactating women

Indication

Male pattern baldness, Alopecia androgenetica

Contra Indication

Minoxidil topical solution is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to Minoxidil or any of the other ingredients in the formulation such as propylene glycol or ethanol.

Dose

N/A

Side Effect

1-10% Allergic contact dermatitis (7.4%),Tendonitis (2.6%) Frequency Not Defined Irritation,Burning,Erythema at site of application,May see systemic effects (hypotension)

Pregnancy Category

Mode of Action

Minoxidil is an antihypertensive with direct vasodilating property. It reduces elevated BP accompanied by reflex tachycardia, increased cardiac output and elevated plasma renin. Applied topically, minoxidil stimulates hair growth secondary to vasodilation, increases cutaneous blood flow and stimulates resting hair follicles.

Interaction

Topical: Absorption may be increased with corticosteroids, retinoids, occlusive ointment bases. Potentially Fatal: Severe orthostatic hypotension may occur with guanethidine.

Pregnancy Category Note

Pregnancy Category: C Lactation: Following topical application of the drug is not known, but the drug has been shown to distribute into milk following oral administration in lactating women

Adult Dose

Androgenetic Alopecia Male: Apply 1 mL of 2% or 5% solution to affected areas of scalp BID; no more than 2 ml in 24 hours Female: Apply 1 mL of 2% solution to affected areas of scalp BID It should be used twice daily for four months or more before evidence of hair growth can be expected.

Child Dose

<18 years old: Safety & efficacy not established

Renal Dose

N/A

Administration

Hair and scalp should be thoroughly dry prior to topical application of Minoxidil. A dose of 1 ml Minoxidil cutaneous solution should be applied to the total affected areas of the scalp twice daily. The total dosage should not exceed 2 ml. If fingertips are used to facilitate drug application, hands should be washed afterwards.