Minoxidil tablets are an antihypertensive peripheral vasodilator used to treat high blood pressure. Although minoxidil tablets are not approved for hair growth, some dermatologists prescribe them off-label to treat hair loss. Here are some details about minoxidil tablets for hair growth:
Ingredients:
- Minoxidil: an antihypertensive peripheral vasodilator
- Inactive ingredients: anhydrous lactose, colloidal silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, and sodium starch glycolate
Positive effects:
- Minoxidil stimulates hair growth in about 60 to 80% of its users
- It can stabilize regrowth
Negative effects:
- Upon discontinuation of minoxidil, new hair growth stops, but 1 to 6 months may be required for restoration to pretreatment appearance
- Hair growth is especially disturbing to children and women
- Minoxidil tablets are not approved for hair growth
- The effects of extemporaneous formulations and dosages have not been shown to be safe or effective
- Minoxidil tablets can cause hypertrichosis without virilism
- Minoxidil tablets can cause itching, redness, or burning of the scalp
In conclusion, minoxidil tablets are not approved for hair growth, but some dermatologists prescribe them off-label to treat hair loss. Minoxidil tablets contain minoxidil as an active ingredient and several inactive ingredients. While minoxidil stimulates hair growth in many users, it can cause hypertrichosis without virilism and other side effects.
