Minoxidil, 1.25mg – 2.5mg
Tablet · Oral
A clinically-backed treatment, often prescribed off-label for hair regrowth.
Why is Minoxidil included for hair restoration?
Minoxidil as a hair loss treatment was discovered by accident. In the 1970s, it was being tested as a blood pressure medication when researchers noticed a remarkable side effect: patients were growing hair — on their scalps, faces, and bodies. Topical formulations were developed and received FDA approval for hair loss in 1988, making it the first approved hair loss treatment. Over 35 years later, it remains a strong evidence-backed option for male and female pattern hair loss. More recently, healthcare providers have begun prescribing Minoxidil off label for oral administration at a low-dose. This is easier for some people and can be more convenient than applying liquid or foam to the scalp every day.
How does it work?
Hair grows in cycles: an active growing phase, a transitional phase, and a resting phase before the hair sheds. In one form of hair loss, a hormone called DHT (a form of testosterone) causes hair follicles to gradually shrink — each cycle produces a thinner, shorter hair until eventually nothing grows at all. Minoxidil doesn't block DHT, but it helps improve blood flow to the scalp, promotes delivery of more oxygen and nutrients to the shrinking follicles, and extends the growing phase of each hair cycle so hairs grow longer and thicker before shedding. Over time, some miniaturized follicles may partially recover.
How strong is the evidence?
Topical Minoxidil has been through dozens of clinical trials in both men and women over 35+ years and is FDA-approved in 2% and 5% formulations. The evidence base for oral Minoxidil in hair loss has grown substantially in recent years, though it remains more limited than for topical formulations. The most recent systematic review and meta-analysis (2025) identified 27 studies with 2,933 patients. Clinical adoption has risen rapidly as dermatologists see real-world results.
What are the limitations and risks?
The first thing most people notice after starting Minoxidil is more hair shedding — which some might find alarming but is usually completely normal. The drug pushes resting follicles into the active growth phase, which first requires the old hair to fall out. The shedding phase usually passes within 4–8 weeks. The most important thing to understand is that Minoxidil is not a cure — it works only while you're using it. If someone stops treatment, the hair they've gained is likely to shed within a few months. It's a long-term commitment. For the oral version, some people experience unwanted hair growth on the face or body, or mild fluid retention — these are dose-dependent and usually manageable. Women should avoid during pregnancy. As with any medication, whether it's right for you is a conversation to have with your healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult with a healthcare provider before starting any treatment.
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