Pharmaceuticals expert reveals what the risks and benefits of the substance are
or minoxidiloften confused and used as a simple cosmetic, it is actually a medicine to treat diseases. And, like any medicine, it also has its side effects. However, when used well – under prescription and under medical supervision – it can provide numerous hair health benefits. It also helps fight alopecia.
curious origin
Discovered in the late 1970s, minoxidil was initially used to treat high blood pressure. But another function was quickly identified. “Patients who used this drug had adverse effects on hair growth in unwanted areas of the body, particularly on the face,” says pharmacist Patricia França.
“In 1980, oral minoxidil was described as an effective drug for the treatment of male androgenetic alopecia and, subsequently, used in the form of a topical solution in women and men for the same purpose,” completes the specialist.
How to use minoxidil correctly – in capsules and creams
According to Patricia, the results of a correct use of minoxidil can vary depending on the patient’s condition and generally begin to manifest after three and six months of treatment. But, for the effects to be truly positive, it is necessary to make continuous use of the drug, under the supervision of a dermatologist.
“Clinical studies of continued use of minoxidil suggest that improvement is sustained as long as treatment is continued. Any positive effects on hair growth are lost within four to six months of stopping treatment,” reveals Dr. Daniel Cassiano, dermatologist member of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology (SBD) and of the Brazilian Society of Dermatological Surgery (SBCD).
Currently, both forms of minoxidil – in capsules and creams – are used to promote beard and hair growth. “We have recently returned to prescribing oral minoxidil, not as an antihypertensive, but for the treatment of alopecia. It is particularly interesting in patients who do not have the discipline to apply the topical product daily,” explains Dr. Cassiano.
Possible side effects
But the disadvantage of using minoxidil capsules is that its side effects can be more intense. “The topical form is more tolerated and its negative effects, although rare, are mild when they appear,” says Patricia. She finds out about the possible side effects of minoxidil, according to experts:
- Irritation;
- Itching;
- Dermatitis in the applied region;
- Hypertrichosis – excessive hair growth;
- reflex tachycardia;
- palpitations;
- Water retention.
These are some of the reasons that make the indiscriminate use of minoxidil something not recommended. Therefore, it is worth emphasizing that it is a medicine and, like any other medicine, it needs a prescription and medical follow-up to work properly and not cause any harm to the health of patients.
Does Minoxidil Cause Impotence?
Does minoxidil make you impotent? Not. According to Patricia, to date, no scientific studies have been able to prove the relationship between drug use and sexual impotence.
Is there a specific composition for women?. What may change is the minoxidil dosage set by the dermatologist.
Does Minoxidil also affect the eyebrow and other regions? Yes. Any hairy area – where there is hair – can be treated with the medicine.
Sources: Patricia França, pharmacist and scientific director of Biotec Dermocosméticos and Dr. Daniel Cassiano, dermatologist, member of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology (SBD), of the Brazilian Society of Dermatological Surgery (SBCD) and co-founder of the GRU Saúde clinic.
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Source: Terra
Benjamin Smith is a fashion journalist and author at Gossipify, known for his coverage of the latest fashion trends and industry insights. He writes about clothing, shoes, accessories, and runway shows, providing in-depth analysis and unique perspectives. He’s respected for his ability to spot emerging designers and trends, and for providing practical fashion advice to readers.
