Minoxidil, which is sold under the brand name Rogaine®, has been prescribed for hair loss since the 1980s. It is very effective in approximately 50% of people. It has no reported drug interactions, and millions of men and women use Rogaine every day without any side effects whatsoever. Like all drugs, it should be used as directed by a physician or according to the package labeling.
When should you use Rogaine?
You should use Rogaine to address any areas of hair loss on the scalp for both men and women with hair loss due to male or female pattern hair loss. Please note that the instructions state that it is for the crown only. The reason for this is that during the initial application to the FDA for this medication the studies were only performed in the crown area and the Fda was very strict about the wording on the label. We now know that it will work on any area of hair loss on the scalp.
When should you not use Rogaine?
- You should not use Rogaine for hair loss due to chemotherapy, skin conditions, scarring or burns.
- You should not use Rogaine if your scalp is infected, swollen or irritated. This can cause too much of the medication to be absorbed through the skin or cause more irritation.
- You should not use Rogaine without consulting a physician if you suffer from heart disease, cancer or other debilitating conditions.
- You should not use Rogaine if you are pregnant or nursing.
- You should not use Rogaine in larger amounts than directions state. This will not speed up hair growth, and in fact can lead to adverse reactions.
- You should not use Rogaine on any part of your body other than your scalp unless advised by a physician.
- You should avoid getting Rogaine in your eyes, nose or mouth. Immediately rinse the area thoroughly with water if this occurs.
Rogaine and adverse reactions
Allergic reactions to Rogaine are extremely rare. Get emergency medical help if you have any of these reactions: difficulty breathing, chest pain, or swelling of the face, throat, tongue or lips.
Consult your physician immediately if you experience any of the following rare conditions:
- Growth of facial hair (females only)
- Severe scalp irritation
- Rapid weight gain
- Swelling in the hands or feet
- Lightheadedness or confusion
- Headaches or dizziness
- Redness or a tingly feeling in the scalp
Rogaine and great results
Having said all that, the fact is Rogaine successfully promotes hair growth slows hair loss for millions of men and women without any adverse effects whatsoever. Contact the clinic to see if Rogaine or other non-surgical hair loss treatments are right for you.
Contact my clinic for a consultation or <ask me a question about your unique situation and how we might treat it.
Dr. James Harris is an internationally renowned hair transplant surgeon, inventor of patented follicular unit excision technology, published author in the field of hair restoration and an advocate for patient care. He is currently at the forefront of research and development in the field of hair cloning. Learn more about Dr. Harris or read rave reviews from his patients.
