Minoxidil for Men and Women – Part A

Minoxidil is one of the basic and most effective baldness cures in the market and the only FDA approved topical hair loss solution. It is manufactured by many companies worldwide, is relatively cheap, and is sold over the counter in pharmacies and in the internet without prescription. Minoxidil is highly recommended in cases of male or female pattern baldness, and your doctor may offer it even in other hair loss causes, as it’s a safe and effective follicles stimulator.

Historically, minoxidil was an oral medication for high blood pressure, users of this medication who also suffered from pattern baldness reported dramatic hair regrowth, which resulted with more research and finally with the development of a topical hair loss solution.

Upjohn was the first company who launched minoxidil in 1988, under the name Rogaine. Initially it was offered only in a 2%  concentration, but later launched the 5% concentration for men and re-branded the 2% as a women’s solution. In 1995 Upjohn merged with Pharmacia and in 2002 the new entity was purchased by Pfizer. Since then the brand name “Rogain” belongs to Pfizer. In 2006 Pfizer launched Men’s Rogaine Foam (minoxidil 5% in foam) that was presented as an improved version of minoxidil that is more convenient to apply on the scalp, with less side effects then the solution as it doesn’t include propylene glycol (which is included in the solution and may cause skin irritation ). Minoxidil is FDA approved, and is sold without prescription in the US since 1996.

How Does Minoxidil Work?

It’s unclear how minoxidil works, but it is assumed that it is related to its chemical structure, which contains nitric oxide – a known vasodilator. When the blood vessels are dilated, they are able to nourish the hair follicles and sustain hair growth.

Minoxidil Clinical Studies Results

Clinical studies regarding minoxidil as an effective medication against pattern baldness have been showing the minoxidil powerful impact over and over again. In general, findings showed that it helps stop pattern baldness and regrow hair in men and women alike, and that the 5% concentration is much more effective then the 2%. Other studies showed that adding minoxidil to other hair loss treatments (such as finasteride/propecia) gets much better results then without adding minoxidil.

Studies and well as customers experience over time shows that the minoxidil side effects are mild if any.

How to Use Minoxidil

You should apply minoxidil twice a day, in the morning and in the evening on a dry scalp. The recommended dosage is 1 ml per use. You should let the solution absorb at least 2-3 hours before being rinsed off.

Minoxidil Side Effects

The most common side effect of minoxidil is skin irritation and redness. These usually disappear within a few days. A good way to get rid of skin irritation caused by minoxidil is to add a good shampoo, such as nizoral shampoo or any other soothing shampoo.

Other side effects which are very rare include headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, chest pain, change in hear rate or in blood pressure, fatigue or swelling of hands or feet. These side effects disappear immediately upon cessation of use.

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