Minoxidil is a well-known treatment for hair loss, initially approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the 1980s. It was first introduced as an oral medication to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). However, an unexpected side effect of hair growth was observed, leading to the development of a topical version specifically for treating baldness. Over time, both oral and topical forms have gained traction for different indications. This article seeks to provide an in-depth look at oral minoxidil, comparing it with its more commonly known counterpart, topical minoxidil.
Oral Minoxidil: An Overview
Origins and Primary Use Oral minoxidil, sold under the brand name Loniten, was originally developed to treat high blood pressure. Its vasodilating properties help in relaxing and widening blood vessels, thereby reducing blood pressure.
Hair Growth as a Side Effect While treating hypertension, patients started reporting an unusual side effect: hair growth in areas where they were balding and, in some instances, even in unwanted places. This discovery shifted the focus of research from its antihypertensive properties to its potential as a hair growth promoter.
Usage Oral minoxidil is usually prescribed at low doses to treat hair loss to minimize the risk of potential side effects. The exact dose varies based on the patient’s needs, but it’s typically much lower than the doses used for hypertension.
Topical Minoxidil: An Overview
Development for Hair Loss Given the side effect profile of oral minoxidil, researchers set out to formulate a topical solution that targeted hair growth without systemic effects. This led to the development of topical minoxidil, approved by the FDA for treating male pattern baldness in 1988 and for female pattern baldness in 1991.
Usage Topical minoxidil is available in three primary concentrations: 2%, 5% and 15% . It’s applied directly to the scalp, usually twice daily.
Comparing Oral and Topical Minoxidil
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Mechanism of Action
- Both forms work by shortening the telogen (resting) phase of hair follicles and pushing them into the anagen (growing) phase.
- Oral minoxidil is systemic, affecting the entire body, whereas the topical version targets specific areas where it’s applied.
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Efficacy
- Some studies suggest oral minoxidil might be more effective because of its systemic nature, ensuring hair follicles receive the drug more consistently.
- However, topical minoxidil has been extensively researched and is proven effective for many individuals, especially when started early in the balding process.
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Side Effects
- Oral minoxidil has a broader range of potential side effects due to its systemic nature. These can include fluid retention, increased heart rate, and excessive hair growth outside of the scalp.
- Topical minoxidil’s side effects are generally localized, including skin irritation or rash at the application site. There’s a small risk of systemic effects if the medication is absorbed into the bloodstream.
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Convenience
- Oral minoxidil is taken as a daily pill, which some might find more convenient than applying a topical solution twice daily.
- However, the potential for systemic side effects may make some patients hesitant to choose the oral route.
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Cosmetic Effects
- Topical minoxidil can sometimes leave a residue, depending on the formulation (solution vs. foam). It might also make the hair appear greasy.
- Oral minoxidil doesn’t have this issue since it’s taken internally.
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