From the Research
Oral minoxidil for hair loss is typically prescribed at low doses ranging from 0.25 mg to 5 mg daily, with most patients starting at 0.25-1.25 mg daily, as evidenced by a recent study published in 2021 1. This medication should only be taken under medical supervision due to potential side effects. The lower doses are preferred to minimize cardiovascular effects like hypotension and tachycardia, which were common when the drug was used at higher doses (10-40 mg) for hypertension. Treatment requires patience as visible results may take 3-6 months, and the medication must be continued indefinitely to maintain benefits. Before starting, patients should undergo cardiovascular assessment including blood pressure monitoring. Common side effects include increased body hair growth, fluid retention, and headaches. Oral minoxidil works by prolonging the growth phase of hair follicles and increasing blood flow to the scalp. It's also supported by other studies that low-dose oral minoxidil has a good safety profile as a treatment for hair loss, with systemic adverse effects being infrequent 2, 3. Additionally, a study published in 2022 4 provides a comprehensive review of minoxidil, including its mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, and clinical efficacy, which further supports the use of low-dose oral minoxidil for hair loss. However, it's essential to note that this is an off-label use of minoxidil, as the FDA has only approved the topical form for hair loss treatment. Some key points to consider when prescribing oral minoxidil for hair loss include:
- Starting with a low dose and titrating as needed
- Monitoring for potential side effects, such as hypertrichosis and pedal edema
- Ensuring patients undergo regular cardiovascular assessments
- Informing patients that treatment requires patience and must be continued indefinitely to maintain benefits.