Is Rogaine (Minoxidil) right for you?

I’m sure you’ve all heard about Rogaine, which is the brand name for the drug Minoxidi. The FDA approved Rogaine which slows the rate of hair loss and reduces the appearance of baldness. You can get Minoxidil over the counter or by prescription. Rogaine is used as a topical ointment that gets rubbed onto your scalp two times a day. Minoxidil has proven effective at regressing or stopping hair loss mainly in the crown of the head. It is not, however, an effective treatment for receding hairlines.


Rogaine can stimulate hair growth of new hair for some users, but any new hair will fall out if Minoxidil use is stopped. Any hair loss shampoo products containing the drug Minoxidil may be able to prevent further hair loss or generate new hair. There are several products on the market that contain Minoxidil. The most effective ones contain a higher concentration of the drug.


Of course there are the side effects like

• increase in size or darkness of fine body hair
• dizziness
• breast tenderness
• rash
• headache
• upset stomach
• vomiting
• acne at the site of application
• burning of scalp
• increased hair loss
• inflammation or soreness at root of hair
• reddened skin

On rare instances you may experience (call your doctor)

• chest pain
• blurred vision or other changes in vision
• decrease in sexual ability or desire*
• fast or irregular heartbeat
• difficulty breathing
• fainting
• light headed
• flushing
• rapid weight gain
• headache
• numbness or tingling of hands, feet, or face
• swelling of face, hands, feet, or lower legs

*According to the Mayo Clinic.

Who should avoid Minoxidil?

Consult your physician if you fall into the following categories and would like to use
Minoxidil.

• If you’re pregnant
• Children should not use Minoxidil
• If you’re older than 65
• If you presently use the following medications

1. Tretinoin (Retin-A)
2. Petrolatum (Vaseline)
3. Corticosteroids (cortisone-like medicines)

• If you suffer from medical problems such as

1. Heart Disease
2. High Blood Pressure
3. Kidney Disease

Important Info

Always use the dosage on the prescription. Minoxidil should not be applied to other
parts of the body. Apply only to your scalp. Keep away from your eyes, nose and mouth.
This drug may also cause drowsiness.

If you notice continued itching, redness, or burning of your scalp after you apply Minoxidil, consult your doctor. If the itching, redness, or burning is severe, wash the medicine off and check with your doctor before using it again.