Side effects of Minoxidil

Minoxidil is a popular medication taken by those looking to address their hair loss. While Minoxidil can help many people restore their natural hair growth safely, some may experience certain side effects while using the medication. This blog post will detail the potential long-term and short-term impacts of taking Minoxidil.

What is Minoxidil?

Minoxidil is a medication most widely known as a topical treatment used to stimulate hair growth. Developed in the 1960s, it was originally designed as an oral tablet to treat high blood pressure problems. However, due to its fortunate side-effect of increased hair growth for those taking it, Minoxidil came to be used topically as a hair loss treatment and is now a widely used medication for this purpose. Despite continued research, however, the exact mechanism behind how Minoxidil works remain largely unknown.

Side Effects When Using Minoxidil

Skin-Related Side Effects 

1. Irritation and Redness 

Irritation and redness can be common side effects amongst users of Minoxidil. Redness usually occurs on the scalp about 15 minutes after application, but this usually disappears within 24 hours. Medical attention should be sought when it persists for longer periods or worsens. Similarly, irritation or itching may also occur on the scalp or other areas where Minoxidil has been applied. Generally, these feelings will subside with time but may require a reduction in usage frequency or intensity until the symptoms disappear completely. Understanding these potential side effects is important before using this medication as part of an ongoing hair treatment plan. [1]

2. Itching and Burning Sensations 

Itching and burning sensations are also possible side effects of Minoxidil when used topically on the scalp. These sensations may be quite intense and can result in discomfort, sometimes to the extent that regular activities become difficult. It should be noted that these symptoms are generally mild and do not last long.[1]

3. Acne and Rashes 

Acne and rashes are common side effects of topical minoxidil treatments. Rashes usually present with redness, itching, and dryness on the skin. They start around two to three weeks into the treatment and can last for some time. Acne, however, can be both an initial or later side effect. When acne appears, it often looks similar to regular acne but is more itchy than painful. Patients should stop using Minoxidil if they start to suffer from a rash or acne whilst using Minoxidil. If symptoms persist beyond a few weeks of stopping minoxidil treatment, it might be time to consider seeking medical advice from a dermatologist or GP. [1]

Systemic Side Effects 

1. Lightheadedness 

Lightheadedness can be a side effect associated with the topical use of Minoxidil. This symptom appears when blood vessels dilate, resulting in decreased blood pressure and reduced oxygen delivery to the head. Furthermore, a reduced blood volume in the circulatory system can cause lightheadedness and other signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, fatigue, headaches, and dizziness. Interestingly, research has identified up to 3% of adults reporting this symptom while using topical Minoxidil solutions; these occurrences were transient even when users continued treatment with no long-term complications. Although its mechanism remains unclear, healthcare providers advise those experiencing lightheadedness to discontinue the use of Minoxidil products and consider reassessing risk versus benefits with their Doctor until this particular systemic side effect is resolved.[2]

2. Swelling of Hands and Feet 

Swelling of the hands and feet is one of the systemic side effects of Minoxidil and can be a cause for concern. This type of swelling, medically referred to as oedema, is caused by a buildup of fluid in certain body parts such as hands, ankles, and feet. Symptoms may also include tightness or stiffness in your joints. Although most cases are usually mild and resolve independently without medical intervention, the swelling can indicate more serious underlying conditions like heart or kidney disease. Therefore, consulting with an experienced healthcare provider is important if you experience these symptoms while using Minoxidil. They can help diagnose the condition and provide guidance on how to manage any symptoms.

3. Increased Heart Rate 

An increased heart rate is one of Minoxidil’s potential systemic side effects that can occur in certain individuals. While this is a rare side effect, it is important to be aware of it. Symptoms may include an irregular or fast heartbeat, chest pain, shortness of breath, and dizziness. A brief accelerated heart rate typically does not have long-term, serious implications; however, if the palpitations do occur please seen medical attention from your prescribing Doctor.

Preventing Minoxidil Causing Side Effects 

Patient selection and a proper Doctor- patient consultation is key to preventing a patient taking Minoxidil and suffering from its side effects. Often those with skin conditions like Psoriasis or Eczema may suffer from further skin irritation if they were to take Minoxidil.

Some patients with existing heart conditions may also be susceptible to having side effects from Minoxidil and therefore should be counselled appropriately by their Doctor.

Treatments for Minoxidil Side Effects 

No medical treatment is without potential side effects. While they can sometimes be worrying, it’s important to know about some general tips for dealing with mild to moderate side effects you might experience from taking Minoxidil. If symptoms are bothersome, it’s best to call the doctor for advice on how to address them effectively and safely. Depending on the severity of your side effects, you may want to consider taking a reduced dose of Minoxidil or stopping altogether.

Conclusion

Minoxidil is one of the most effective and well-researched hair loss treatments. Used by thousands of patients each year, it has been proven to produce positive results in controlling thinning hair in both men and women. Minoxidil takes up to 11 months to see an improvement. If you do suffer from Minoxidil’s side effects, stopping the medication will help resolve them.

Minoxidil is still an effective treatment option for hair loss in both men and women, although side effects can occur. There are numerous potential side effects reported by users, most of which are benign, while others may require medical attention, such as a rapid or irregular heartbeat. It is important to recognise that everyone reacts differently to medications and that one person’s experience does not mean the same will happen to someone else. Patient selection is often key to minimising the risk associated with Minoxidil.

References

Suchonwanit, P., Thammarucha, S., & Leerunyakul, K. (2019). Minoxidil and its use in hair disorders: a review. Drug Design, Development and Therapy, Volume 13, 2777–2786. https://doi.org/10.2147/dddt.s214907

Vañó-Galván, S., Pirmez, R., Hermosa-Gelbard, A., Moreno-Arrones, Ó. M., Saceda-Corralo, D., Rodrigues-Barata, R., Jimenez-Cauhe, J., Koh, W. L., Poa, J. E., Jerjen, R., Trindade de Carvalho, L., John, J. M., Salas-Callo, C. I., Vincenzi, C., Yin, L., Lo-Sicco, K., Waskiel-Burnat, A., Starace, M., Zamorano, J. L., & Jaén-Olasolo, P. (2021). Safety of low-dose oral minoxidil for hair loss: A multicenter study of 1404 patients. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 84(6), 1644–1651. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaad.2021.02.054

Randolph, M., & Tosti, A. (2021). Oral minoxidil treatment for hair loss: A review of efficacy and safety. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 84(3), 737–746. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaad.2020.06.1009