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DERMATOLOGICALS › OTHER DERMATOLOGICAL PREPARATIONS › OTHER DERMATOLOGICAL PREPARATIONS › Other dermatologicals
minoxidil
D11AX01
Forms & Strengths
- Topical solution: 2%, 5%
- Topical foam: 5%
- Oral tablet: 2.5 mg, 10 mg
Adult Dosing
- Androgenetic alopecia (Topical): Apply 1 mL (solution) or half a capful (foam) to affected scalp areas twice daily
- Severe hypertension (Oral): Initial 5 mg daily in single or divided doses; may increase gradually up to maximum 100 mg daily in divided doses
Pediatric Dosing
- Hypertension (Oral, off-label): Initial 0.2 mg/kg once daily; titrate upward cautiously to maximum 50 mg/day (or 1 mg/kg/day)
Indications
- Treatment of androgenetic alopecia (topical formulations)
- Management of severe hypertension refractory to other therapy (oral formulation)
Mechanism of Action
- Opens adenosine triphosphate-sensitive potassium channels in vascular smooth muscle cells, causing peripheral vasodilation and decreased blood pressure
- Prolong anagen phase of hair follicles, stimulates microcirculation, and promotes hair growth through direct stimulation of hair follicle cells
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to minoxidil or any component of the formulation
- Pheochromocytoma (due to risk of stimulating catecholamine release)
- Recent myocardial infarction (for systemic oral therapy)
Adverse Reactions
- Topical: Localized erythema, pruritus, scalp irritation, hypertrichosis (unwanted facial/body hair)
- Oral: Fluid retention, peripheral edema, tachycardia, palpitations, pericardial effusion, angina pectoris, ECG changes
Drug Interactions
- Guanethidine: Profound orthostatic hypotension risk when combined with oral minoxidil
- Vasodilators and antihypertensives: Potential for additive hypotensive effects
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use