Minoxidil

Minoxidil tablets are a form of the well-known medication Minoxidil, often prescribed for oral consumption to promote hair growth. You might be familiar with Minoxidil as a topical solution, but did you know that it also comes in tablet form?

The Origin Story: From Blood Pressure to Hair Growth

Originally designed as an antihypertensive medication, Minoxidil became a superstar in the world of hair regrowth when it was discovered that one of its side effects is stimulating hair growth. Talk about a happy accident!

Minoxidil, initially developed as a medication for high blood pressure, was found to have hair growth-promoting properties. This discovery led to its use in treating hair loss, both in tablet form and as a topical solution. 

Minoxidil tablets work systemically. When ingested, the medication circulates through the bloodstream and affects the entire body. Its primary mechanism for promoting hair growth involves the widening of blood vessels. This vasodilatory effect increases blood flow to hair follicles, improving their function and stimulating hair growth. Additionally, minoxidil is believed to open potassium channels, which helps in hair regrowth by nurturing the hair follicles.

In contrast, the topical solution of minoxidil is applied directly to the scalp. This localised application concentrates the drug’s action on specific areas, reducing systemic side effects. The topical form also allows for varying concentrations, typically ranging from 2% to 5%, enabling users to choose a strength based on their sensitivity and hair growth needs.

The main difference between the two forms lies in their systemic versus localized effects. Oral minoxidil affects the entire body and can lead to more systemic side effects like hypotension, whereas the topical solution primarily impacts the applied area, reducing the risk of such systemic reactions. However, the topical solution may cause local side effects like scalp irritation or allergic reactions.

The recommended dosage is half a tablet for two weeks then one 2.5mg mg tablet daily if tolerated well. Minoxidil may be taken with or without food. Three to six months of once daily treatment are required before evidence of stabilisation of hair loss can be expected. Continuous use is recommended to sustain benefit. If treatment is stopped, the beneficial effects begin to reverse by six months and return to baseline by 9 to 12 months.

Minoxidil tablets work to combat hair loss through a systemic approach, meaning it impacts your whole system. Unlike topical Minoxidil solutions that are applied directly to the scalp, Minoxidil tablets are taken orally and get into your bloodstream. Once in the bloodstream, the active ingredient works to widen blood vessels, specifically in the scalp area.

By dilating these blood vessels, Minoxidil improves blood flow to the hair follicles. Better blood circulation provides your hair follicles with more nutrients and oxygen, creating a more conducive environment for hair growth. This action counteracts the shrinking of hair follicles, which is a common reason for hair thinning and loss.

Moreover, Minoxidil is believed to extend the anagen phase of the hair growth cycle. The anagen phase is the active growth period for hair follicles. By extending this phase, Minoxidil helps to not only promote new hair growth but also may help the existing hair to become thicker and more robust.

So, in a nutshell, Minoxidil tablets work by improving blood circulation to hair follicles and potentially extending the active growth phase of your hair. Always remember to consult a healthcare provider before starting any medication, including Minoxidil tablets, to ensure it’s appropriate for your specific condition and to discuss any potential side effects or interactions with other medications you may be taking.

From The Family Chemist.

Minoxidil tablets is a prescription only medicine and can only be prescribed by a clinician. Unfortunately, all hair loss treatments are not available to prescribe from the NHS and therefore GPs will charge for a private consultation and a prescription. You will also pay for the medication from a pharmacy. However The Family Chemist clinician can prescribe Minoxidil tablets free of charge and only charge for the medicines and have it delivered to you in 24 hours.

YES! Using both products can increase your chances of halting hair loss and triggering regrowth, as they work differently but safely together.

Yes, Minoxidil is not available over the counter. You can buy Minoxidil Tablets from The Family Chemist by filling out the consultation.

Minoxidil Patient Information Leaflet

Hair loss – NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Alopecia UK Support Group

British Association of Dermatologists (bad.org.uk)

British Hair and Nail Soceity Leaflet

Patience is key. Generally, you’ll start seeing results after three to six months of regular use. But remember, consistency is crucial. Skipping a day here and there won’t get you those lush locks you’re dreaming of.

In summary, while both forms of minoxidil promote hair regrowth, they differ in their mechanism of action, site of application, and side effect profile. Oral minoxidil offers a systemic approach to hair regrowth, potentially beneficial for widespread hair loss, while the topical solution provides a targeted approach with a lower risk of systemic side effects.

It depends on your specific needs and the nature of your hair loss. Tablets might offer more uniform results, especially for diffuse hair loss.

No, this practice significantly increases risk of side effects.

Minoxidil tablets are generally not licensed in the UK for the treatment of hair loss. In the UK, Minoxidil is primarily available as a topical solution or foam for treating hair loss, and it is licensed for this use. The tablet form of Minoxidil is generally reserved for treating hypertension (high blood pressure). However Minoxidil tablets are used widely across the world for hair loss and there is plenty of evidence supporting its use. Minoxidil is used off-license like many other medicines in the UK. See our post discussing off label use of a medicine.