Minoxidil: the non-surgical hair loss treatment option
In the quest to fight hair loss, many men and women look to non-surgical treatments first. One of the most popular treatments is Minoxidil, more often known by brand name Rogaine.
What is Minoxidil?
Introduced in the late 1980's, Minoxidil was originally a prescription oral medication meant to control high blood pressure. However, side effects included darkening of fine hair and new hair growth. Seeing an opportunity with the drug, UpJohn Corporation produced a topical version meant to combat hair loss. Minoxidil was the first hair restoration medication to be approved in the United States by the Food and Drug Administration.
Touted as a miracle drug, there was some disappointment when Minoxidil proved to be only moderately effective. Since the introduction of the two percent solution, a five percent solution has hit the market that appears to be much more effective. Though the medication is heavily marketed for men, women have seen better results with Minoxidil.
How is Minoxidil used?
Minoxidil is a topical medication available over the counter. Minoxidil should be used at least twice per day for several months before any results can be seen; once results are achieved, Minoxidil must be used regularly to maintain new hair growth. It works best when used for relatively small areas of hair loss or for recent onset hair loss due to androgenetic alopecia. Hair restoration specialists sometimes use Minoxidil to slow hair loss in young patients, thus delaying surgical options. In some cases, Minoxidil is combined with Finasteride, brand name Propecia, to slow hair loss and spur new hair growth.
Side effects of Minoxidil include minor skin irritation and itching. Some patients might see growth of unwanted facial hair if Minoxidil is applied to facial skin. The high concentration of alcohol in the solution might cause burning of the eyes during application or dryness of the scalp and dandruff. Hair loss during the first few weeks of use is also a common side effect; however, this could be the body simply shedding old hair as new growth begins to appear.
