Minoxidil (Topical)

Brand Names : Gen-Minoxidil, Minoxigaine, Rogaine, Rogaine Extra Strength For Men, Rogaine For Men, Rogaine For Women, Apo-Gain

Proper Use of This Medicine

This medicine usually comes with patient instructions. It is important that you read the instructions carefully.

It is very important that you use this medicine only as directed . Do not use more of it and do not use it more often than your doctor ordered. To do so may increase the chance of it being absorbed through the skin. For the same reason, do not apply minoxidil to other parts of your body. Absorption into the body may affect the heart and blood vessels and cause unwanted effects.

Do not use any other skin products on the same skin area on which you use minoxidil . Hair coloring, hair permanents, and hair relaxers may be used during minoxidil therapy as long as the scalp is washed just before applying the hair coloring, permanent, or relaxer. Minoxidil should not be used 24 hours before and after the hair treatment procedure. Be sure to not double your doses of minoxidil to make up for any missed doses .

To apply minoxidil solution:

• Make sure your hair and scalp are completely dry before applying this medicine.
• Apply the amount prescribed to the area of the scalp being treated, beginning in the center of the area. Follow your doctor's instructions on how to apply the solution, using the applicator provided.
• Do not shampoo your hair for 4 hours after applying minoxidil.
• Immediately after using this medicine, wash your hands to remove any medicine that may be on them.
• Do not use a hairdryer to dry the scalp after you apply minoxidil solution. Blowing with a hairdryer on the scalp may make the treatment less effective.
• Allow the minoxidil to completely dry for 2 to 4 hours after applying it, including before going to bed. Minoxidil can stain clothing, hats, or bed linen if your hair or scalp is not fully dry after using the medicine.
• Avoid transferring the medicine while wet to other parts of the body. This can occur if the medicine gets on your pillowcase or bed linens or if your hands are not washed after applying minoxidil.

If your scalp becomes abraded, irritated, or sunburned, check with your doctor before applying minoxidil.

Keep this medicine away from the eyes, nose, and mouth . If you should accidentally get some in your eyes, nose, or mouth, flush the area thoroughly with cool tap water. If you are using the pump spray, be careful not to breathe in the spray .

Dosing - The dose of topical minoxidil will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label . The following information includes only the average dose of topical minoxidil. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

• For topical solution dosage form:
  • For hair growth:
    • Adults up to 65 years of age - Apply 1 milliliter to the scalp two times a day.
    • Adults 65 years of age and older - Use and dose must be determined by the doctor.
    • Infants - Use is not recommended.
    • Children up to 18 years of age - Use and dose must be determined by the doctor.

Missed dose - If you miss a dose of this medicine, go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage - To store this medicine:

• Keep out of the reach of children.
• Store away from heat and direct light.
• Keep the medicine from freezing.
• Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Be sure that any discarded medicine is out of the reach of children.
• Flammable: Keep away from fire or flame.