Low-dose tablet minoxidil used off-label for hair loss under medical supervision.
Oral minoxidil was originally developed as a blood pressure medicine. Low-dose oral minoxidil is now used off-label by some clinicians for pattern hair loss and chronic shedding, especially when topical minoxidil is irritating or impractical. It can be effective, but it is not simply a cosmetic supplement. Possible side effects include increased facial or body hair, ankle swelling, headaches, dizziness, palpitations and blood pressure effects. It should be prescribed with appropriate screening and monitoring, particularly in people with cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, pregnancy plans or interacting medicines.
British Association of Dermatologists: Hair loss male pattern (androgenetic alopecia) — https://www.bad.org.uk/pils/hair-loss-male-pattern-androgenetic-alopecia; British Association of Dermatologists: Hair loss female pattern (androgenetic alopecia) — https://www.bad.org.uk/pils/hair-loss-female-pattern-androgenetic-alopecia; Kaiser M et al. Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia: Current Guidance and Unmet Needs, 2023 — https://doi.org/10.2147/CCID.S385861
