TLDR Minoxidil use during pregnancy can cause excessive hair growth and multiple birth defects in the baby.
In 1987, a study was conducted observing the effects of minoxidil, a potent peripheral vasodilating agent used for severe hypertension, on pregnant women and their infants. The study found that hypertrichosis, a condition of excessive hair growth, was a common side effect of minoxidil, occurring in nearly all patients treated for longer than 4 weeks. This side effect was found to be reversible after discontinuation of the drug. The study also reported a case of an infant born with hypertrichosis and multiple congenital anomalies whose mother was on a regimen of minoxidil, captopril, and propranolol throughout her pregnancy. The researchers encouraged further reports on pregnancy outcomes after maternal use of minoxidil.
4 citations,
January 2017 in “Indian Dermatology Online Journal” A child used a hair growth lotion for hair loss, but it caused excessive hair growth on his face and neck instead.
10 citations,
February 2016 in “Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia” Topical minoxidil can cause excessive hair growth in children, so use it carefully.
5 citations,
March 2013 in “Journal of cosmetic and laser therapy” Laser treatment successfully removed unwanted facial hair caused by minoxidil.
18 citations,
January 1997 in “British Journal of Dermatology” 5% topical minoxidil can cause severe body hair growth, which disappears after stopping treatment.
20 citations,
March 1994 in “Clinical and Experimental Dermatology” Too much topical minoxidil can cause excessive hair growth, but stopping treatment reverses it.
36 citations,
March 1987 in “Pediatrics” Minoxidil use during pregnancy can cause excessive hair growth and multiple birth defects in the baby.
73 citations,
November 1979 in “British Journal of Dermatology” Minoxidil can cause excessive hair growth.
17 citations,
April 1975 in “The Journal of Pediatrics” Minoxidil effectively controls severe high blood pressure in children with few side effects.
