Oral Minoxidil

What is Oral Minoxidil?

Oral minoxidil is a tablet medication originally approved to treat severe high blood pressure. In dermatology, low-dose oral minoxidil is increasingly used off-label for hair loss, especially pattern hair loss, and expert consensus now addresses how hair specialists prescribe and monitor it for patients with alopecia.

How does Oral Minoxidil work?

Oral minoxidil contains the same active ingredient as topical minoxidil, but it is taken by mouth and works systemically rather than being applied directly to the scalp. In dermatology, it is used at low doses to help support hair regrowth in selected patients when an oral option is felt to be a better fit.

What are possible side effects of oral minoxidil?

Oral minoxidil carries the potential to lower blood pressure, which may result in symptoms like lightheadedness or dizziness. Periodic monitoring of blood pressure is advised while on this medication. Some individuals may experience foot and ankle swelling. A notable side effect is hypertrichosis, or increased hair growth on other areas of the body, affecting approximately 15% of users.

How is oral minoxidil used?

For optimal results, oral minoxidil can be used in combination with topical minoxidil. Given the complexity of hair loss, a multi-faceted treatment approach is often recommended. This may include using oral minoxidil in conjunction with other hair loss treatments like finasteride. Importantly, discontinuation of the medication will result in a reversal of its effects, leading to hair loss. Therefore, oral minoxidil should be considered a long-term strategy in managing hair loss.