Recently an article appeared in the press generating a lot of questions about treating hair loss with oral minoxidil.

Minoxidil is a medication that is commonly used to treat hair loss. It is available in both topical and oral forms. Oral minoxidil is a medication that is typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but has also been found to stimulate hair growth. One of the advantages of oral minoxidil is that it can provide significant hair regrowth in individuals with hair loss, including those who have not responded to other treatments. It is also relatively easy to take, as it is a pill that can be taken once or twice a day. Additionally, oral minoxidil may result in increased hair thickness and density, as well as improved hair health overall.

However, there are also some potential drawbacks to using oral minoxidil for hair loss. One of the most significant risks is low blood pressure, which can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and even fainting. For this reason, individuals taking oral minoxidil must be monitored regularly. Other potential side effects include fluid retention, weight gain, chest pain, and pericardial effusion. Additionally, oral minoxidil may interact with other medications, so it is essential to inform your doctor of any other medications you are taking before starting treatment. Finally, while oral minoxidil can be an effective treatment for hair loss, it is not a permanent solution. Once treatment is stopped, hair regrowth may gradually cease, and hair loss may resume. In our opinion, there are generally better options for hair loss than oral minoxidil.