Minoxidil helps promote the regrowth of new hair in men or women with hair loss due to a certain sex hormone known as androgen.
Apply Minoxidil exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not apply more often or over a larger area than instructed by your doctor.
Your doctor will also discuss the use of this medicine as different strengths and preparations of Minoxidil may only be used specifically for men or women.
This medicine is available as a topical solution, foam, or spray.
If you are using the topical solution, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands. Do not wet your hair and scalp before using the solution.
- Apply onto the dry scalp starting from the centre of the affected area then gently massage.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after application.
- Replace the cap of the bottle.
If you are using the spray, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands. Do not wet your hair and scalp before using the spray.
- Spray the solution directly onto the scalp within the affected area. You may press the nozzle up to six times.
- After each press, gently massage this medicine on the affected area of the scalp. Avoid inhaling the spray mist.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after using.
If you are using the foam, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands. Do not wet your hair and scalp before using the foam.
- Hold the can upside down and press the nozzle to dispense the foam on the hand.
- Apply the foam on the affected area of the scalp and spread gently using the fingertips.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after using.
Your hair may be styled as usual but the scalp may not be moistened for about 4 hours.
Avoid contact with eyes. Rinse immediately with water if this medicine gets into your eyes. Alert your doctor if you start to have any problems with your eyes.
Minoxidil must be used regularly for it to be effective. It may take several months to notice the full effect of this medicine. Do not stop using it unless instructed by the doctor.
If you missed a dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose to make up for a missed dose.
If you often forget to apply your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- high blood pressure (treated or untreated)
- any condition affecting the scalp e.g. psoriasis (a type of skin disease that allows the skin cells to rapidly build up causing itchy patches of thick, red skin and silvery scales), sunburned scalp
- shaved, inflamed, infected, irritated or painful scalp
as this medicine may not be suitable for you.
Do not use Minoxidil with other medicines, topical preparations, or occlusive dressings applied on the scalp.
Inform your doctor if you have heart problems, including irregular heartbeat.
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Do not apply Minoxidil to other parts of your body other than the scalp.
This medicine in its various forms can be flammable. Avoid exposure of the medicine to fire and flames or smoking during and immediately after applying Minoxidil on your scalp.
Minoxidil may cause any of the following side effects: headache, rash, and redness, itching, irritation or dryness of skin on the application site.
If you develop swollen hands or feet, sudden unexplained weight gain, dizziness, and irregular heartbeat, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor immediately.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Do not use Minoxidil with other medicines, topical preparations, or occlusive dressings applied on the scalp.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Avoid exposure of Minoxidil to fire and naked flames.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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