Oral Minoxidil in Non-Androgenic Alopecias

The document discusses the use of oral Minoxidil, a medication traditionally used for hypertension and topical treatment of androgenic alopecia, in treating various types of non-androgenic alopecia. The mechanism of action is not fully understood, but it is known to act as a potent peripheral vasodilator and stimulate hair growth pathways. Dosage varies from 0.25 to 5 mg/day, with lower doses suggested for children, adolescents, and women, and higher doses for men. The document cites several studies, including one with 36 women with chronic telogen effluvium who showed hair fall improvement, and another with 18 patients with traction alopecia who reported decreased hair fall and increased hair density. Side effects can include hirsutism, postural hypotension, and lower limb edema. The document concludes that oral Minoxidil is an emerging therapy that has shown benefits in androgenic alopecia and could be an alternative treatment in other alopecias, with a good safety profile and few contraindications. Lower doses appear to be a safe and effective option to reduce side effects.