From the FDA Drug Label
Minoxidil topical solution 5% contains alcohol, which will cause burning or irritation of the eyes. If minoxidil topical solution 5% accidentally gets into eyes, rinse with large amounts of cool tap water. Avoid contact with the eyes. In case of accidental contact, rinse eyes with large amounts of cool tap water.
The frequency of ophthalmologic side effects with topical minoxidil use is not explicitly stated in the drug label. However, it is mentioned that the solution can cause burning or irritation of the eyes if it accidentally gets into them. The label advises rinsing the eyes with large amounts of cool tap water in case of accidental contact.
- The label does not provide a specific frequency or incidence of ophthalmologic side effects.
- It only mentions the potential for eye irritation and provides instructions for handling accidental contact 1.
From the Research
Ophthalmologic Side Effects of Topical Minoxidil
The frequency of ophthalmologic side effects with topical minoxidil use is rare, but several cases have been reported in the literature. Some of the reported side effects include:
- Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) 2
- Retinal artery occlusion 3
- Non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy 4
Characteristics of Reported Side Effects
The reported side effects are often associated with prolonged use of topical minoxidil, and the exact mechanism of these side effects is not fully understood. However, it is thought that the vasodilatory effects of minoxidil may play a role in the development of these conditions. The reported cases are often characterized by:
- Sudden onset of symptoms, such as blurred vision or visual field loss
- Presence of subretinal fluid or retinal artery occlusion on imaging studies
- Resolution of symptoms after discontinuation of minoxidil use
Comparison with Other Ophthalmic Agents
Topical ophthalmic agents, in general, can cause systemic side effects, especially in older patients or those with underlying medical conditions 5. However, the side effects associated with topical minoxidil are distinct from those associated with other ophthalmic agents, such as glaucoma medications 6.
Reported Cases and Studies
Several case reports have been published in the literature, highlighting the potential ophthalmologic side effects of topical minoxidil use 2, 3, 4. These reports suggest that patients using topical minoxidil should be monitored for signs of ophthalmologic side effects, and that discontinuation of minoxidil use may be necessary in cases where these side effects occur.