Minoxidil (On The Skin)

Minoxidil (mi-NOX-i-dil)

Used to cause hair growth in certain types of baldness.

Brand Name(s):

Rogaine, Rogaine For Men Extra Strength, Minoxidil
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

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 to Use This Medicine:

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.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

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.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• 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.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

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

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.