An Overview of Incidence and Mechanisms Promoting Weight Gain as an Adverse Effect of Oral Minoxidil Therapy for Androgenetic Alopecia

Oral minoxidil, used to treat androgenetic alopecia, can cause fluid retention leading to weight gain, with incidence rates varying from 0.22% to 10% across studies. The severity and frequency of this side effect are dose-dependent, and in some cases, rapid weight gain necessitates the addition of a diuretic or discontinuation of the treatment. The underlying mechanism involves alterations in the neurohumoral system and renal hemodynamics. Despite these side effects, oral minoxidil remains a generally safe and effective treatment for most patients. Further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms and dose dependence of this adverse effect.