Minoxidil (Topical)
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Minoxidil (Topical) Drug and Prescription Information
Minoxidil (Topical)
Minoxidil (Topical) Medication Classification
MINOXIDIL (On the skin)
Minoxidil (Topical) Brandname
Rogaine, Rogaine For Men Extra Strength, Minoxidil
Minoxidil (Topical) is used for the Treatment
Minoxidil (mi-NOX-i-dil) Used to cause hair growth in certain types of baldness.
When To Not Use Minoxidil (Topical)
You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to minoxidil. You should not use this medicine if you have pheochromocytoma (a tumor that produces adrenalin).
How Should You Use Minoxidil (Topical)
Liquid
- Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
- Using more medicine than your doctor has prescribed will not speed up hair growth and may increase your risk of side effects.
- If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
- It is important to carefully follow the instructions for applying this medicine. The topical solution is for use on the skin only.
- Wash your hair and make sure your hair and scalp are completely dry before putting on minoxidil.
- Apply minoxidil to the center of the bald area and spread it in a thin layer. Use only the applicator that came with your medicine.
- Wash your hands with soap and water after putting minoxidil on your scalp.
- If you accidentally get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth, wash the area thoroughly with water. If using the pump spray, be careful not to breathe in the mist.
- Do not use a hair dryer to dry your scalp after putting on minoxidil.
- If you use minoxidil at bedtime, do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after putting on the medicine. If a dose is missed:
- Use your medicine as soon as you remember that you have missed your dose.
- If it is nearly time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose.
- You should not use two doses at one time.
Proper Minoxidil (Topical) Storage
Store Minoxidil (Topical) at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture unless otherwise stated by manufacturer's instructions or labelling. Keep Minoxidil (Topical) and all medications out of the reach of children.
What To Avoid While Using Minoxidil (Topical)
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
- Make sure your doctor knows if you are using minoxidil tablets (Loniten®) for high blood pressure. Using both oral and topical minoxidil may increase the chance of side effects.
- Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking high blood pressure medicine such as diltiazem (Cardizem®), verapamil (Calan®), nifedipine (Procardia®), propranolol (Inderal®), or metoprolol (Lopressor®).
- You should not use minoxidil with guanethidine (Ismelin®, Esimil®) unless your doctor tells you to.
- Minoxidil may not work properly if you also use tretinoin (Retin A®), cortisone drugs, or petroleum jelly (Vaseline®) on your scalp. Tell your doctor if you are using these or any other skin lotions on the same area of your scalp.
Minoxidil (Topical) Warnings
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using this medicine. Use of minoxidil is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Before using this medicine, let your doctor know if you have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, or fluid retention (edema).
- Check with your doctor before using minoxidil if you have a cut or scrape on your skin, a rash, or a sunburn on your scalp.
Minoxidil (Topical) Side Effects
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
- Severe itching, burning, or redness of scalp
- Swelling of face
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Dizziness If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
- Increased hair loss
- Loss of interest in sex
- Dry, flaking, or red skin
