Dosing and uses of Rogaine (minoxidil topical)
Adult dosage forms and strengths
topical solution
- 2%
- 5%
topical foam
- 5%
Androgenetic Alopecia
Male: Apply 1 mL of 2% or 5% solution to affected areas of scalp BID (qAM & qHS); no more than 2 ml in 24 hours
Female: Apply 1 mL of 2% solution to affected areas of scalp BID (qAM & qHS)
Pediatric dosage forms and strengths
<18 years old: Safety & efficacy not established
Rogaine (minoxidil topical) adverse (side) effects
1-10%
Allergic contact dermatitis (7.4%)
Tendonitis (2.6%)
Frequency not defined
Irritation
Burning
Erythema at site of application
May see systemic effects (hypotension)
Warnings
Contraindications
Propylene glycol sensitivity, avoid use with other topical drugs, hypersensitivity
Cautions
Once started, need to use indefinitely; hair growth should be apparent by 4 mth
Can be easily removed from scalp; avoid contact with scalp once applied
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy category: C
Lactation: following topical application of the drug is not known, but the drug has been shown to distribute into milk following oral administration in lactating women
Pregnancy categories
A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.
B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk.
C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done.
D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk.
X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist.
NA: Information not available.
Pharmacology of Rogaine (minoxidil topical)
Absorption: 1.4% systemic, 95% of which is eliminated w/ in 4 d
Mechanism of action
Acts at the level of the hair follicle, possibly involving direct stimulation of hair follicle epithelial growth
