Hair Growth Effect of Minoxidil

    January 2002 in “ Folia Pharmacologica Japonica ”
    Susumu Otomo
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    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.
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      community Being Safe on Oral Minoxidil: tl;dr on the literature.

      in Research/Science  47 upvotes 2 weeks 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 [20M] Hair Regrowth with Minoxidil ONLY- Need Opinions

      in Minoxidil  231 upvotes 1 day ago
      A 20-year-old is using minoxidil for hair regrowth and considering finasteride despite concerns about side effects. Many suggest adding finasteride to maintain gains, with recommendations to start with a low dose or use a topical form to minimize side effects.

      community Warning: Minoxidil usage around pets

      in Minoxidil  454 upvotes 5 days ago
      Minoxidil is highly toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs, even in small amounts. Many users have switched to oral minoxidil to prevent accidental exposure to their pets.

      community Minoxidil has stopped working for me

      in Minoxidil  7 upvotes 1 week ago
      Minoxidil alone is not enough for long-term hair growth without a DHT blocker like finasteride or dutasteride. Users suggest trying lower doses of finasteride or switching to dutasteride to manage side effects and improve results.

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