Minoxidil, taken by mouth
A tablet that widens blood vessels. In hair follicles it is understood to lengthen the growing phase.
Oral minoxidil is prescribed off-label for hair loss. It is not FDA-approved for hair loss. A licensed provider decides whether it fits you, and should tell you why.
Not for
- Anyone with a pheochromocytoma.
- Anyone who has had an allergic reaction to minoxidil.
Common effects
- Hair growth in places you did not intend, most often on the face, arms and back. This is the most frequently reported effect at hair-loss doses.
- Fluid retention, which usually shows first as puffy ankles or a quick gain in weight.
- A faster heartbeat, lightheadedness, or headache.
Serious effects
- Fluid around the heart, which can become an emergency.
- Worsening angina.
- Heart failure from salt and water retention.
Get medical help if
- Shortness of breath, especially lying down.
- Chest pain, or a heartbeat that stays fast.
- Swelling of the hands, feet or face, or a weight gain of more than 2 kg (about 5 lb) in a few days.
- Fainting or near-fainting.
Tell your provider
- Any heart, kidney or blood-pressure condition, and every blood-pressure medicine you take.
Sources
- Minoxidil tablets USP, FDA prescribing information, boxed warning. US Food and Drug Administration. FDA-approved labeling, DailyMed
- Randolph M, Tosti A. Oral minoxidil treatment for hair loss: a review of efficacy and safety. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. J Am Acad Dermatol 2021;84(3):737-746
- Randolph M, Tosti A. Oral minoxidil treatment for hair loss: a review of efficacy and safety. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. J Am Acad Dermatol 2021;84(3):737-746