Grow Hair 2%

Indications

Minoxidil is used in two very different ways:

• As a solution or foam on the scalp, to treat hereditary hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) in men and women. This is the most common use.
• As tablets, for severe high blood pressure that has not responded to other medicines. Tablets are used only under close medical supervision.

How It Works

On the scalp, minoxidil widens small blood vessels and lengthens the growth phase of hair follicles, so thin hairs can grow thicker and longer. As a tablet it relaxes the walls of small arteries, which lowers blood pressure.

Dosage and Administration

Scalp solution or foam (2% or 5%): apply 1 ml of solution (or half a capful of foam) to the dry scalp over the thinning area twice a day, morning and night, and massage in gently. Do not use more or more often; it will not work faster. Wash hands after use and let it dry for 2 to 4 hours before washing the hair or going to bed. Women are usually advised to use the 2% strength or the 5% foam once daily. Results usually take 2 to 4 months, and the benefit continues only while it is used. Tablets for blood pressure: as prescribed, usually with a diuretic and a beta-blocker.

Interactions

Scalp products: other scalp treatments (such as Tretinoin or corticosteroid creams) may increase absorption and side effects; avoid using them on the same area unless advised. Tablets: can add to the effect of other blood pressure medicines and may cause a sharp fall in blood pressure with Guanethidine; take only as directed by the doctor.

Contraindications

• Allergy to minoxidil or any ingredient (such as propylene glycol in solutions).
• Scalp products: sudden, patchy or unexplained hair loss, hair loss after childbirth, or an inflamed, infected, sunburned or shaved scalp; people under 18 years.
• Tablets: phaeochromocytoma (a rare adrenal tumour), and certain heart conditions as decided by the doctor.

Side Effects

Scalp products: itching, dryness, flaking or redness of the scalp, and unwanted hair growth on the face or forehead. Increased hair shedding is common in the first few weeks as old hairs are replaced. Tablets: fluid build-up and swelling, fast heartbeat, and increased body and facial hair.

Stop using it and get urgent medical help for: chest pain, a fast or pounding heartbeat, fainting or severe dizziness, sudden weight gain or swelling of the hands, feet or face, shortness of breath, or signs of a serious allergic reaction.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Do not use the scalp products during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Tablets are used in pregnancy or breastfeeding only if the doctor decides it is essential.

Precautions and Warnings

• Scalp products: for use on the scalp only. Avoid the eyes and broken skin. Tell the doctor about heart disease or low blood pressure before using.
• Stop and see a doctor if there is no improvement after 4 months for men or 6 months for women.
• Keep away from flames while the solution is wet, as it contains alcohol.
• It is toxic to cats and dogs; keep pets away from treated hair and spilled product.
• Tablets: regular blood pressure, weight and heart checks are needed.

Overdose

Swallowing the scalp solution, or taking too many tablets, can cause very low blood pressure, a fast heartbeat, dizziness and fluid build-up. Seek urgent medical help, especially if a child has swallowed it.

Therapeutic Class

Hair growth stimulant (topical); vasodilator antihypertensive (tablets).

Storage

Store below 30°C, away from heat, flames and light, with the cap closed, and out of the reach of children and pets.