History of Minoxidil ( mi-NOX-i-dil )

Minoxidil was introduced to the market in the 1970’s as an oral pill,  “Loniten.” Loniten / minoxidil Minoxidil (lotiten) was prescribed as a blood pressure pill to control severely elevated blood pressure that is not manageable with other blood pressure pills. After the first dose of loniten / minoxidil, blood pressure would usually start to go down within one-half hour. Oral minoxidil works by dilating the blood vessels so blood can flow better. One of the side effects patients would report was hair growth. Soon after it was evident that Minoxidil had benefits as a hair loss treatment it was tested and approved by the FDA as the first “hair loss treatment” that could claim to grow hair. Minoxidil is the active ingredient in the brand name Rogaine™. It is also sold as minoxidil 5% and minoxidil 2% under generic names. In the US this type of topical minoxidil is available without a prescription.  Loniten is still prescribed today for heart patients by many doctors. Order Minoxidil 5%

Description
Minoxidil (mi-NOX-i-dil) applied to the scalp is used to stimulate hair growth in adult men and women with a certain type of baldness. It is believed the way topical Minoxidil works is to help increase blood flow to the hair follicles by dilating blood vessels. Results usually take place after several months of daily use. Minoxidil only works as long as it is used. If the treatment is stopped hair loss will resume in several months. In the U.S., this medicine is available without a prescription. Topical minoxidil is available in the following dosage form:

• 5% Minoxidil solution (for men)
• 2% Minoxidil solution (for women)

Proper Use of Minoxidil
Read the instructions carefully. Follow the direction on the box and insert.

It is very important that you use minoxidil only as directed. Do not use more of it and do not use it more often than instructed. Apply Minoxidil only to the scalp. Do not apply Minoxidil to other parts of the body. Application of Minoxidil is best on a clean scalp. It is safe to use Minoxidil if you receive chemical treatment to your hair such as hair color, bleach, and relaxers. Order Minoxidil 5%

Do not use more than the directed amount of product.

To apply minoxidil solution:

• Make sure your hair and scalp are completely dry before applying this medicine.
• Apply the amount prescribed to the area of the scalp being treated, beginning in the center of the area. Follow your doctor's instructions on how to apply the solution, using the applicator provided.
• Do not shampoo your hair for 4 hours after applying minoxidil.
• Immediately after using this medicine, wash your hands to remove any medicine that may be on them.
• Do not use a hairdryer to dry the scalp after you apply minoxidil solution. Blowing with a hairdryer on the scalp may make the treatment less effective.
• Allow the minoxidil to completely dry for 2 to 4 hours after applying it, including before going to bed. Minoxidil can stain clothing, hats, or bed linen if your hair or scalp is not fully dry after using the medicine.
• Avoid transferring the medicine while wet to other parts of the body. This can occur if the medicine gets on your pillowcase or bed linens or if your hands are not washed after applying minoxidil.

If your scalp becomes irritated in any way, check with your doctor before applying minoxidil.

Keep this medicine away from the eyes, nose, and mouth . If you should accidentally get some in your eyes, nose, or mouth, flush the area thoroughly with cool tap water. If you are using the pump spray, be careful not to breathe in the spray.

Why It Is Used