Minoxidil 5% Soln For Men 120ml
It is used to help regrow hair in some people.
Drug Class
Hair growth stimulant; Alopecia agent
Pharmacologic Class
Potassium channel opener; Peripheral vasodilator (topical mechanism primarily related to follicular effects)
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Aug 1988
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Minoxidil topical solution is a medication applied directly to the scalp to help stimulate hair growth and slow hair loss in men with male pattern baldness. It works by revitalizing hair follicles and extending the hair's growth phase.
How to Use This Medicine
Proper Use of This Medication
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. It is essential to use this medication as directed.
Application Instructions
Apply this medication only to your scalp, as directed by your doctor. Do not take it by mouth. Be careful to avoid getting the medication in your mouth, nose, or eyes, as it may cause burning. If the medication accidentally gets in your eyes, rinse them with cool water.
Hygiene Precautions
Wash your hands thoroughly before and after applying the medication to prevent any potential irritation or infection.
Storage and Disposal
Store this medication at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Keep all medications in a secure location, out of the reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion or exposure.
Missed Dose Instructions
If you miss a dose, skip it and resume your regular application schedule. Do not apply a double dose or extra doses to make up for the missed one.
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. It is essential to use this medication as directed.
Application Instructions
Apply this medication only to your scalp, as directed by your doctor. Do not take it by mouth. Be careful to avoid getting the medication in your mouth, nose, or eyes, as it may cause burning. If the medication accidentally gets in your eyes, rinse them with cool water.
Hygiene Precautions
Wash your hands thoroughly before and after applying the medication to prevent any potential irritation or infection.
Storage and Disposal
Store this medication at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Keep all medications in a secure location, out of the reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion or exposure.
Missed Dose Instructions
If you miss a dose, skip it and resume your regular application schedule. Do not apply a double dose or extra doses to make up for the missed one.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Apply to a dry scalp. Do not use a hairdryer to speed up drying, as it may reduce effectiveness.
- Wash hands thoroughly before and after applying the solution.
- Avoid getting the solution in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with cool water.
- Do not apply to irritated, sunburned, or broken skin.
- Consistency is key: use twice daily, every day, for at least 4 months to see results. Hair growth is a slow process.
- Initial hair shedding may occur within the first few weeks of treatment; this is usually temporary and indicates the drug is working by pushing out old hairs to make way for new ones.
- Avoid washing hair for at least 4 hours after application.
- Protect treated areas from sun exposure, as the scalp may be more sensitive.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
Apply 1 mL of 5% solution to the affected area of the scalp twice daily (morning and evening).
Dose Range:
1 - 1 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
androgenetic_alopecia:
Apply 1 mL of 5% solution to the affected area of the scalp twice daily. Total daily dose should not exceed 2 mL.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established
Infant:
Not established
Child:
Not established
Adolescent:
Not established (not recommended for individuals under 18 years of age)
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Moderate:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Severe:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Dialysis:
No specific considerations for topical use due to minimal systemic absorption.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Moderate:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Severe:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
The exact mechanism by which minoxidil stimulates hair growth is not fully understood. It is thought to work by: 1) Shortening the telogen (resting) phase and prolonging the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle. 2) Enlarging miniaturized hair follicles. 3) Increasing blood flow to the scalp, which may deliver more nutrients to hair follicles. It is a potassium channel opener, which may contribute to its vasodilatory effects and direct effects on hair follicles.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Approximately 1.4% to 4.5% of the topically applied dose is absorbed systemically.
Tmax:
Systemic Tmax is approximately 1 hour after topical application.
FoodEffect:
Not applicable for topical formulation.
Distribution:
Vd:
Not well-defined for topical application due to low systemic absorption.
ProteinBinding:
Not well-defined for topical application; for oral minoxidil, it is not protein bound.
CnssPenetration:
Limited (due to low systemic absorption)
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Systemic half-life is approximately 4.2 hours (after topical application).
Clearance:
Primarily renal.
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (primarily as glucuronide conjugate and unchanged drug).
Unchanged:
Approximately 90% of absorbed minoxidil is excreted within 4 days.
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Hair growth may be observed after 2-4 months of consistent use.
PeakEffect:
Maximum effect typically seen after 12 months of continuous use.
DurationOfAction:
Continued use is necessary to maintain hair growth; cessation leads to hair loss within a few months.
Confidence:
High
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away
While rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects when taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Chest pain or pressure
Fast heartbeat
Dizziness or fainting
Sudden and significant weight gain
Swelling in the arms or legs
Scalp irritation
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. Although many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms that bother you or persist, contact your doctor for advice:
Change in hair color
* Change in hair texture
Note: This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects not mentioned here. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
While rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects when taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Chest pain or pressure
Fast heartbeat
Dizziness or fainting
Sudden and significant weight gain
Swelling in the arms or legs
Scalp irritation
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. Although many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms that bother you or persist, contact your doctor for advice:
Change in hair color
* Change in hair texture
Note: This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects not mentioned here. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Severe scalp irritation (burning, itching, redness, swelling)
- Unwanted hair growth on other parts of the body (e.g., face)
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
- Chest pain
- Swelling of hands or feet (edema)
- Sudden, unexplained weight gain
- Fainting
- Blurred vision or other vision changes
- Numbness or tingling of hands or feet
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced.
If you do not have a family history of hair loss.
If your hair loss is sudden, patchy, or of unknown cause.
If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, as not all formulations of this medication are approved for use in these situations. If you are unsure about your specific product, consult your doctor.
If the patient is a child, as this medication is not intended for use in children.
If your hair loss is related to childbirth, as this medication is not indicated for this type of hair loss.
Additionally, this medication may interact with other medications or health conditions. Therefore, it is crucial to:
Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, natural products, and vitamins.
Discuss your health problems with your doctor to ensure it is safe to take this medication.
* Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor to verify the safety of this combination.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced.
If you do not have a family history of hair loss.
If your hair loss is sudden, patchy, or of unknown cause.
If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, as not all formulations of this medication are approved for use in these situations. If you are unsure about your specific product, consult your doctor.
If the patient is a child, as this medication is not intended for use in children.
If your hair loss is related to childbirth, as this medication is not indicated for this type of hair loss.
Additionally, this medication may interact with other medications or health conditions. Therefore, it is crucial to:
Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, natural products, and vitamins.
Discuss your health problems with your doctor to ensure it is safe to take this medication.
* Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor to verify the safety of this combination.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication.
When applying this drug, avoid areas of the scalp that are red, swollen, infected, irritated, or painful, as this may exacerbate these conditions. Additionally, do not use any other scalp medications or hair care products concurrently with this drug, as interactions may occur.
Be aware that the full effects of this medication may not be apparent for several months. Furthermore, it is crucial to understand that this drug may not be effective for everyone who uses it. If you have concerns about its efficacy, consult with your doctor.
If you experience unwanted facial hair growth while using this medication, notify your doctor promptly.
To ensure safe use, keep in mind that this drug is flammable. Therefore, avoid using it near open flames or while smoking, as this could pose a fire hazard.
In the event of accidental ingestion, this drug can be harmful. If swallowed, immediately contact a doctor or a poison control center for assistance.
When applying this drug, avoid areas of the scalp that are red, swollen, infected, irritated, or painful, as this may exacerbate these conditions. Additionally, do not use any other scalp medications or hair care products concurrently with this drug, as interactions may occur.
Be aware that the full effects of this medication may not be apparent for several months. Furthermore, it is crucial to understand that this drug may not be effective for everyone who uses it. If you have concerns about its efficacy, consult with your doctor.
If you experience unwanted facial hair growth while using this medication, notify your doctor promptly.
To ensure safe use, keep in mind that this drug is flammable. Therefore, avoid using it near open flames or while smoking, as this could pose a fire hazard.
In the event of accidental ingestion, this drug can be harmful. If swallowed, immediately contact a doctor or a poison control center for assistance.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Tachycardia (rapid heartbeat)
- Fluid retention (edema)
- Dizziness
- Fainting
What to Do:
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention or call a poison control center (e.g., 1-800-222-1222 in the US). Management is supportive and symptomatic, focusing on maintaining blood pressure and fluid balance.
Drug Interactions
Moderate Interactions
- Guanethidine (theoretical risk of orthostatic hypotension if significant systemic absorption occurs, though unlikely with topical minoxidil)
- Topical corticosteroids, retinoids, or petrolatum (may increase minoxidil absorption)
Confidence Interactions
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Scalp assessment (e.g., photographic documentation)
Rationale: To establish baseline hair density and coverage for efficacy monitoring.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Medical history (especially cardiovascular conditions)
Rationale: To identify contraindications or conditions that may be exacerbated by systemic absorption (though rare).
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Routine Monitoring
Hair growth and density
Frequency: Every 3-6 months
Target: Increased hair density and coverage
Action Threshold: Lack of improvement after 12 months may indicate non-response; continued hair loss may indicate treatment failure or progression of condition.
Scalp irritation (redness, itching, flaking)
Frequency: Regularly, with each application
Target: Absence of irritation
Action Threshold: Persistent or severe irritation may require dose reduction, temporary discontinuation, or change in formulation.
Systemic side effects (e.g., dizziness, rapid heartbeat, swelling of hands/feet, unexpected weight gain)
Frequency: Periodically, or if symptoms arise
Target: Absence of systemic effects
Action Threshold: Presence of systemic effects warrants immediate medical evaluation and discontinuation of therapy.
Symptom Monitoring
- Scalp irritation (itching, redness, dryness, flaking)
- Unwanted facial or body hair growth (hypertrichosis)
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
- Chest pain
- Swelling of hands or feet (edema)
- Sudden, unexplained weight gain
- Fainting
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Minoxidil topical solution is classified as Pregnancy Category C. It should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Systemic absorption is low, but minoxidil is a potent vasodilator and has been associated with adverse effects in animal studies at high doses.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Potential risk, avoid if possible.
Second Trimester:
Potential risk, avoid if possible.
Third Trimester:
Potential risk, avoid if possible.
Lactation
Minoxidil is excreted in human milk following oral administration. While systemic absorption from topical application is low, it is generally recommended to avoid use during breastfeeding due to the potential for adverse effects in the infant (e.g., cardiovascular effects).
Infant Risk:
Low to moderate risk; potential for cardiovascular effects in infant. Use with caution or avoid.
Pediatric Use
Safety and effectiveness in individuals under 18 years of age have not been established. Not recommended for pediatric use.
Geriatric Use
No specific dose adjustments are typically required for geriatric patients. However, caution should be exercised in elderly patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease due to the theoretical risk of systemic effects, although minimal with topical application.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Minoxidil topical solution is only effective for androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness) and is not indicated for other types of hair loss.
- Consistent, twice-daily application is crucial for efficacy. Missing doses can reduce effectiveness.
- Initial hair shedding (telogen effluvium) is a common and temporary side effect during the first few weeks of treatment, indicating the drug is working.
- Results are not immediate; significant hair growth typically takes 4-12 months of continuous use.
- Treatment must be continued indefinitely to maintain hair growth. Discontinuation will lead to a return to baseline hair loss within a few months.
- Avoid applying minoxidil to other body areas to prevent unwanted hair growth (hypertrichosis).
- The 5% solution is generally more effective than the 2% solution for men.
- Ensure the scalp is dry before application. Applying to wet hair or scalp can dilute the solution and reduce absorption.
Alternative Therapies
- Finasteride (oral, prescription only, for male pattern baldness)
- Low-level laser therapy (LLLT)
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
- Hair transplantation
- Dermarolling/microneedling
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$20 - $60 per 60mL (1 month supply)
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Often not covered by insurance as it is considered a cosmetic treatment; may be covered by some HSA/FSA plans.
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor promptly. To ensure safe and effective treatment, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so it's a good idea to check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek medical attention. When reporting the incident, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.