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 Creatine is the opposite of minoxidil !

      in Research/Science  322 upvotes 2 weeks ago
      Creatine may counteract minoxidil's hair growth effects by closing potassium ATP channels, potentially leading to hair loss in predisposed individuals. Despite anecdotal reports, there is no conclusive evidence linking creatine to hair loss.

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

      in Research/Science  52 upvotes 10 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 Anybody here cooking oral minoxidil?

      in Minoxidil  25 upvotes 3 days ago
      The conversation is about making oral minoxidil pills for personal use, including inquiries about ingredients and binders. The user mentions taking 2.5mg of oral minoxidil daily.

      community Tips for using a scalp applicator for Minoxidil

      in Minoxidil  31 upvotes 3 days ago
      Tips for using a scalp applicator for Minoxidil, including using smaller doses for even coverage, twisting the applicator for better distribution, adjusting pressure to control flow, and cleaning regularly. Users also discuss alternative methods like pipettes, q-tips, and spray bottles for applying Minoxidil, especially for those with longer or thicker hair.

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