From the Guidelines
The recommended dosage of Minoxidil for treatment is 5–100 mg per day, administered 1-3 times daily, as indicated in the most recent and highest quality study 1. When considering the use of Minoxidil, it is essential to weigh the potential benefits against the risks, particularly the risk of hirsutism and the need for concomitant use of a loop diuretic and β-blocker to mitigate sodium avidity and increased sympathetic tone.
- Key considerations for Minoxidil use include:
- Starting with a low dose and titrating upwards as needed and tolerated
- Monitoring for signs of fluid retention and increased heart rate
- Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider to adjust the dosage and manage potential side effects
- Considering alternative treatment options if Minoxidil is not well tolerated or effective. The evidence from 1 and 1 suggests that Minoxidil can be an effective treatment option for certain patients, but its use should be carefully considered and monitored to minimize the risk of adverse effects.
- In terms of specific dosing, the evidence from 1 provides a range of 5–100 mg per day, administered 1-3 times daily, which should be tailored to the individual patient's needs and response to treatment. It is crucial to prioritize the patient's morbidity, mortality, and quality of life when making treatment decisions, and to carefully weigh the potential benefits and risks of Minoxidil use in each individual case.
From the FDA Drug Label
For best results, apply 1 mL with applicator 2 times a day directly onto the scalp in the hair loss area. Using more or using more often will not improve results. Apply minoxidil topical solution 5% once in the morning and once at night. Each bottle should last one month, if used as directed.
The recommended dosage of Minoxidil (Rogaine) for treatment is 1 mL, twice a day, applied directly onto the scalp in the hair loss area.
- Morning application: once in the morning
- Nighttime application: once at night, 2 to 4 hours before going to bed to allow for drying. Using more than the recommended dose will not improve results and may increase the chance of side effects 2.
From the Research
Minoxidil Dosage for Treatment
The recommended dosage of Minoxidil (Rogaine) for treatment varies depending on the condition being treated.
- For hypertension, the dosage of minoxidil ranges from 5 to 50 mg/day, with an average dose of 29 mg/day 3.
- For alopecia, minoxidil is typically used as a topical formulation, with a 2% concentration solution for female androgenic alopecia or 5% for male androgenic alopecia 4.
- Low-dose oral minoxidil (LDOM) has been used for treating alopecia, with doses of ≤5 mg/day 5.
Side Effects and Considerations
Minoxidil use can be associated with several side effects, including:
- Hypertrichosis (excessive hair growth) 6, 3, 4, 7
- Tachycardia (increased heart rate) 6, 3, 5
- Sodium and water retention 6, 3
- Irritant and allergic contact dermatitis on the scalp (with topical formulation) 4
Administration and Monitoring
Minoxidil is often administered in combination with other medications, such as diuretics and beta-adrenergic blocking agents, to control side effects and enhance efficacy 6, 3, 7.