Minoxidil side effects

Minoxidil side effects

When minoxidil is used to treat hair loss, the most common side effect   is  scalp itching . This is due to the fact that the solution used contains alcohol, which dries out the scalp. This can result in dandruff formation. In addition to dandruff, acne can also form on the scalp.

Hair loss is not a bad sign

At the beginning of treatment, there may also be increased hair loss – but this is not necessarily a bad sign. In the long term, this makes it possible for the hair to grow back stronger. All of these side effects only occur with external use of minoxidil. If severe skin reactions occur, the drug should be discontinued.

Consequences of an overdose

If minoxidil is taken in large amounts, low blood pressure, headaches and tachycardia can occur. It can also cause tingling in the hands, feet or face. In rare cases, taking minoxidil can also cause the following side effects:

• nausea
• Gastrointestinal complaints
• anemia
• lung changes

Contraindications

Under certain circumstances, products with the active ingredient minoxidil must not be taken. For example, the use of minoxidil is prohibited during pregnancy and breastfeeding. In children, the active ingredient should only be used under medical supervision and should not be applied externally.

In addition, Minoxidil must not be taken if

• hypersensitivity to the active ingredient.
• someone has a pheochromocytoma. A pheochromocytoma is a tumor that is located in the adrenal medulla in 85 percent of all cases. Because the administration of minoxidil can promote the release of catecholamines such as  adrenaline  and noradrenaline from the tumor tissue.
• you have pulmonary  hypertension  due to a heart valve defect (mitral valve stenosis).
• only mild high blood pressure.

Minoxidil should not be used in patients who have had a  heart attack  until the patient’s condition is stable.

If Minoxidil is used to treat hereditary hair loss, the active ingredient must not be used if

• sudden or uneven hair loss occurs.
• other medicines are used on the scalp.
• There is hair loss in the temple area.

Interactions with minoxidil

Interactions with minoxidil can occur if guanethidine or bethanidine and alpha-receptor blockers are taken at the same time. This can lead to a very sharp and rapid drop in blood pressure. Simultaneously taking neuroleptics can also lead to an increased drop in blood pressure.

If betha-receptor blockers are taken at the same time, this can result in increased activity of the hormones that regulate blood pressure. In addition, the simultaneous intake of diuretics and minoxidil can lead to an increased loss of water and minerals.