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Rogaine
(minoxidil topical solution)-
In this factsheet:
- How does Rogaine work? What will it do for me?
- How should I use Rogaine?
- What form(s) does Rogaine come in?
- Who should NOT take Rogaine?
- What side effects are possible with Rogaine?
- Are there any other precautions or warnings for Rogaine?
- What other drugs could interact with Rogaine?
DIN (Drug Identification Number)
| 00708925 | ROGAINE TOPICAL SOLUTION |
How does Rogaine work? What will it do for me?
Minoxidil belongs to a group of medications known as hair regrowth treatments. It is used treat male pattern baldness. It is not meant for baldness due to nonhereditary factors (e.g., baldness caused by illnesses such as iron deficiency or medications such as cancer chemotherapy).
When applied to the scalp of a man with male pattern baldness, it often stimulates hair growth. The exact way it works is not known, but it is thought to improve the blood flow around the hair follicle. Minoxidil topical solution is not approved for use by women.
It usually takes four or more months of use for the medication to work. Once hair starts to grow, it will stay for as long as the medication is used. The hair will begin to fall out again a few months after the applications are stopped.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
How should I use Rogaine?
The recommended dose is 1 mL applied twice daily to the scalp, starting in the center of the affected area. This dose should be used no matter how large the area is to be applied to. The maximum daily dose is 2 mL.
The solution comes with a pump-spray applicator, a rub-on applicator, and a child-resistant dropper. The spray is more convenient for applying to large areas of the scalp, while the rub-on applicator and dropper make it easier to use on small areas of the scalp or under hair. Refer to package directions for details on the best way to apply the solution with each dosage form.
It is important that the solution stay in contact with the scalp for at least four hours after application. During this time, avoid activities such as swimming, showering, or physical activity that may cause excessive perspiration.
If you are washing your hair before applying the medication, use a mild shampoo. To avoid eye irritation, wash your hands well after applying this medication to the scalp. Avoid inhaling the spray mist. Do not apply this medication to any area of the body other than the scalp.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way you are using the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important to use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose use it as soon as possible if it's within a few hours of the missed time and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not use a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.
What form(s) does Rogaine come in?
Each 1 mL of clear, colourless-to-slightly yellow topical solution contains minoxidil 20 mg (2%). Nonmedicinal ingredients: alcohol, propylene glycol, water.
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
Who should NOT take Rogaine?
Minoxidil topical solution should not be used by anyone who:
- is allergic to minoxidil or to any of the ingredients of the solution
- is bald due to non-hereditary factors (e.g., caused by illnesses such as iron deficiency or medications such as cancer chemotherapy)
- is or may be pregnant or is nursing
- is using other skin medications on the scalp
- has shaved, broken, inflamed, irritated, infected, or severely sunburned skin on the scalp
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