Hair Growth Effect of Minoxidil

    January 2002 in “ Folia Pharmacologica Japonica
    Susumu Otomo
    Image of study
    TLDR Minoxidil helps hair grow by improving blood flow and increasing growth factors in hair follicles.
    The 2002 document outlines the hair growth effects of minoxidil, a drug initially used for high blood pressure that was found to stimulate hair growth. Minoxidil is thought to work by activating the sulfonylurea receptor (SUR), which leads to increased blood flow, promotion of growth factors like VEGF, and prevention of cell death in hair follicles, thereby extending their growth phase. Although the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, minoxidil is believed to enhance cell growth factors, inhibit apoptosis, and improve blood flow, which together stimulate hair follicles. Minoxidil was FDA-approved in 1988 and is available in various concentrations, including 1% and 5% topical formulations.
    Discuss this study in the Community →

    Research cited in this study

    21 / 21 results

    Related Community Posts Join

    6 / 1000+ results

      community Being Safe on Oral Minoxidil: tl;dr on the literature.

      in Research/Science  52 upvotes 3 months ago
      Oral minoxidil is effective for hair loss but can cause cardiovascular side effects, such as pericardial effusion, especially in those with genetic predispositions. Starting with low doses and monitoring cardiovascular health are advised to reduce risks.

      community Should I add oral minoxidil right now?

      in Minoxidil  69 upvotes 1 day ago
      The user is considering adding oral minoxidil to their current hair loss treatment, which includes dutasteride and occasional finasteride, due to concerns about hair thinning and potential shedding. They are unsure if starting both treatments simultaneously could worsen shedding or if oral minoxidil might be beneficial.

      community Stoped minoxidil 5 weeks ago and still bloated

      in Minoxidil  75 upvotes 2 days ago
      The user stopped using minoxidil 5 weeks ago due to facial swelling, which initially subsided but then returned. Despite a healthy lifestyle and normal test results, the user is concerned about the persistent bloating.

      community Duoxidil / Dutasteride/ Minoxidil

      in Minoxidil  82 upvotes 1 week ago
      The conversation discusses a user's positive experience with hair loss treatments, including Duoxidil, oral Dutasteride, oral Minoxidil, and biotin, noting no side effects and effective results. The user plans to start a new cycle of Dutasteride and PRP sessions.

    Related Research

    9 / 9 results