Minoxidil, marketed under the trade name, Rogaine, and as a generic is one of the most widely used treatments for androgenic alopecia, or male pattern baldness. When it was first created, it was intended to be a treatment for hypertension, but studies showed that men using it experienced new hair growth.
Today, it is available as a topical application placed directly on the scalp and as a pill taken internally. However, before one begins using it, he must attain an understanding of Minoxidil side effects.
Some of the common, minor side effects include the eyes burning or itching, skin itching, irritation of the scalp, and undesired hair growth on other parts of the body. It is also possible that the alcohol content of the topical formulation can dry the scalp and lead to dandruff.
Severe side effects that indicate one should stop using this drug and consult a doctor immediately include allergic reactions ranging from a rash or hives to swelling in the face, lips, mouth, or tongue and difficulty breathing.
Chest pain, rapid heartbeat, dizziness and fainting, edema in the hands or feet, and unexplained weight gain are also considered severe side effects and treatment should be discontinued.
The chances of experiencing severe side effects increase dramatically when minoxidil is taken internally. Oral minoxidil has also been linked to heart lesions and necrosis (death) of the papillary muscle and portions of the left ventricle in the heart.
A form of deformation of facial features and other abnormal growth known as pseudoacromegaly has been associated with taking high doses of this drug.
It comes as a shock to many men to find that additional hair loss is also one of the known minoxidil side effects. In fact, this is possibly the most common of all the side effects noted.
It is believed to be caused by changes in the hair follicles that shorten the telogen (resting) phase of the follicles and encourage the commencement of a new anagen (growth) phase. This shedding is temporary in most cases, though there are no guarantees that hair lost to this process will be replaced.
While it remains one of the most popular treatments for male pattern baldness, and is available without a prescription, it is important to have some understanding of minoxidil side effects before beginning treatment with this substance.
Most side effects are minor and pose no real dangers. However, there are some serious side effects that indicate one should discontinue treatment and seek medical care immediately.
However if you are looking for more products as well as natural methods you can use without side effects, one particular site that will be able to give you plenty of options would be, Total Hair Regrowth.
As a user, I feel its safe and think it helps grow some hair. I think the key is to also nourish hair and have always used different strengthening hair products that work great. Some were from Redken but recently used a doctors line – Simly Scientific Hair which volumized and strenghtened hair well. Sorry mispelled it, Simply Scientific Hair especially conditioner and also use an Olive Oil mask, I know its silly once a week from some store in NJ