From the FDA Drug Label
In studies with minoxidil topical solution 5%, hair regrowth has not been shown to last longer than 48 weeks of continuous treatment in large clinical trials. What happens if I completely stop using minoxidil topical solution 5%? Will I keep the new hair? Continuous use of minoxidil topical solution 5% is needed to maintain hair regrowth If you stop using minoxidil topical solution 5%, you will lose your newly regrown hair in 3 to 4 months.
The guidelines for stopping minoxidil therapy are not explicitly stated in terms of tapering. No tapering is mentioned. It is stated that if you stop using minoxidil topical solution 5%, you will lose your newly regrown hair in 3 to 4 months, implying that continuous use is necessary to maintain hair regrowth. 1
From the Research
Patients should taper off oral minoxidil gradually under medical supervision rather than stopping abruptly to avoid rebound hypertension. When considering stopping minoxidil therapy, it's crucial to weigh the benefits against the potential risks and side effects. According to the most recent and highest quality study 2, topical minoxidil is approved for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia, and its use is limited due to the need for at least daily application. Oral minoxidil, in doses below those likely to lower blood pressure, has increasingly been used off-label to treat various hair loss conditions. Some key points to consider when stopping minoxidil therapy include:
- Severe adverse reactions, such as significant cardiovascular effects, allergic reactions, or intolerable side effects, warrant discontinuation of minoxidil therapy.
- For topical minoxidil, discontinuation is recommended if persistent scalp irritation, unwanted hair growth in other body areas, or severe headaches develop.
- With oral minoxidil, therapy should be stopped if patients experience significant hypotension, rapid heartbeat exceeding 20 beats per minute above baseline, sudden weight gain (more than 5 pounds), severe edema, or chest pain.
- Discontinuing minoxidil will likely result in reversal of hair growth benefits within 3-6 months, as the medication doesn't permanently alter hair follicles but rather prolongs the growth phase while being used.
- Any decision to stop minoxidil should be discussed with a healthcare provider who can evaluate the risk-benefit ratio for the individual patient and provide guidance on alternative treatments if necessary. It's also important to note that finasteride, another medication used to treat hair loss, has a different mechanism of action and side effect profile compared to minoxidil 3, 4, 5. However, the most recent and highest quality study 2 provides the best guidance on the safe and effective use of minoxidil.