Topical Minoxidil Does Little for Baldness

The document discussed the use of a 2% topical minoxidil solution, marketed as Regaine, which was introduced in the UK in 1988 for treating male-pattern baldness. While oral minoxidil, used for hypertension, often caused increased hair growth (hypertrichosis) and occasionally improved male-pattern baldness, the topical version aimed to stimulate hair growth without systemic side effects. However, it was not licensed for use by women or for other types of baldness and was only available through private prescription.