TLDR A man fainted and felt unwell after using a strong hair growth product, but got better when he stopped using it.
In 2015, a case was reported of a 29-year-old man who experienced syncope (fainting) and general malaise after using a high-strength formulation of topical minoxidil for hair growth restoration. The man's symptoms, which included two episodes of fainting after exercising and feeling faint upon standing, began 12 weeks after he started using the product and resolved once he stopped using it. His blood pressure, which was borderline low at 104/62 mm Hg while using the product, returned to a normal level of 115/80 mm Hg after discontinuation. Other potential cardiovascular and endocrine causes were ruled out through a series of assessments. This case highlighted the potential for hypotension and syncope with the use of high-strength topical minoxidil, a powerful systemic antihypertensive agent.
74 citations,
May 2004 in “Journal of Clinical Hypertension” Minoxidil effectively treats severe hypertension, but watch for side effects.
45 citations,
October 1988 in “British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology” Using topical minoxidil for baldness can cause heart problems, especially in those with heart disease.
52 citations,
February 1985 in “Archives of Dermatology” Minoxidil absorbs poorly through skin, with low risk of side effects at 1-2% concentration.
4 citations,
September 2015 in “Case Reports” A man fainted and felt unwell after using a strong hair growth product, but got better when he stopped using it.
14 citations,
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57 citations,
July 1987 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” Stopping minoxidil treatment resumes balding; continuous use needed for results.
67 citations,
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80 citations,
October 1983 in “BMJ” Minoxidil helps hair regrowth in alopecia patients, with 16 having good results and no side effects.
