TLDR Oral Minoxidil can cause serious eye problems, but stopping it can improve vision.
A 35-year-old man using oral Minoxidil for alopecia developed Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO) with secondary Cilioretinal Artery Occlusion (CLRAO), leading to sudden vision loss. After discontinuing Minoxidil, his vision significantly improved. This case highlights a rare but serious ocular side effect of oral Minoxidil, previously undocumented in the literature. The findings suggest a probable idiosyncratic reaction to Minoxidil, emphasizing the need for healthcare professionals to be aware of potential ocular complications associated with its use and the necessity for further research on this topic.
48 citations,
May 1999 in “International Journal of Dermatology” Alopecia areata is an unpredictable autoimmune hair loss condition, treated based on severity, with half of patients regrowing hair within a year without treatment.
3 citations,
June 2006 in “Expert Review of Dermatology” The document concludes that hair loss is complex, affects many people, has limited treatments, and requires more research on its causes and psychological impact.
March 2020 in “QJM: An International Journal of Medicine” Standard intralesional corticosteroids are the best treatment for patchy alopecia areata.
15 citations,
April 2020 in “Journal of Dermatological Treatment” Minoxidil and finasteride work best for hair loss; more research needed.
10 citations,
April 2018 in “Actas Dermo-Sifiliográficas” In 2017, Spanish dermatologists most often prescribed minoxidil and finasteride for male hair loss, and minoxidil and oral contraceptives for premenopausal female hair loss.
22 citations,
May 1999 in “International Journal of Dermatology” Hair loss from genetics and hormones can be treated with drugs or surgery.
