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Minoxidil treats some kinds of hereditary hair loss, including male pattern baldness. It works by increasing blood flow to the scalp and extending the growth phase of hair follicles. It’s available as a topical solution or foam you apply directly to the scalp (brand name, Rogaine) and as an oral tablet (brand name, Loniten).
* Prescription treatment requires a virtual medical consultation with a medical provider to determine if a prescription is appropriate.
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How Dr. B treats hair loss
1
Health assessmentTell us about your condition with a $15 online consultation.
2
Provider reviewA medical provider will review your information and prescribe treatment, if appropriate.
3
Get your medicationPick up and pay for the medication at the pharmacy of your choice. Or, get it delivered.
About Minoxidil
How does it work?
Minoxidil stimulates hair growth by widening blood vessels, which increases blood flow to hair follicles. It also affects the hair growth cycle, helping hair follicles stay in the “growing” phase longer. The effect only lasts for as long as you continue treatment, though. If you stop using Minoxidil, your hair will go back to the way it was before.
What does it treat?
Minoxidil only treats specific kinds of hereditary hair loss, like male pattern baldness (androgenic alopecia). There are other types of hair loss, though. Your medical provider can help you understand if Minoxidil will treat your condition.What forms does it come in?
Minoxidil comes as a topical solution and foam that you apply directly to the scalp, usually 2 times daily. It also comes as oral tablets you ingest by mouth, 1-2 times daily.
Minoxidil vs. Rogaine vs. Loniten
Rogaine is a brand version of topical Minoxidil. Loniten is the brand version of oral Minoxidil. Generic and brand-name medicines contain the same active ingredients. So they work the same way to treat male pattern baldness and other forms of hereditary hair loss.
How much will it cost?
Dr. B offers online consultations for $15—which is less than most copays. If a hair loss prescription is appropriate, your out-of-pocket medication cost will depend on your insurance and where you decide to get your prescription filled. With a drug discount card, prices for Minoxidil 2 % Topical Solution (60 mL bottle) start at $2.93.
* Prices shown with drug discount card applied. Price may differ depending on location.
$15
Online visit with Dr. B
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Starting at
$2.93
$5.43
Minoxidil 2 % Topical Solution (60 mL bottle)*
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Common Questions
Minoxidil prescription FAQ
What are the benefits of using Minoxidil?
- Promotes hair regrowth
- Slows or stops hair loss
- Enlarges hair follicles
- Increases blood flow to the scalp
- Improves overall thickness and density of hair
Who should not use this medication?
- Pregnant or breastfeeding people
- Individuals allergic or sensitive to Minoxidil or any of its components
- People with scalp infections, open wounds or sunburn on the scalp
- People with heart, liver or kidney problems
Some medicines can interfere with Minoxidil. So be sure to tell your healthcare provider your full medical history and any medications you’re currently using.
How do I use this medication?
To use Minoxidil (topical form): When treating hair loss, apply this medicine to your scalp as directed, usually twice daily. You’ll need to use the medicine for 2-4 months to see any changes in hair growth.
To use Minoxidil (oral form): Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your provider, usually 1-2 times daily. You’ll need to use the medicine for 2-4 months to see any changes in hair growth.
What happens if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose of Minoxidil, take it as soon as you remember. But don’t apply extra or take an extra dose to “catch up.” Using too much can cause serious side effects—and it won’t help your hair grow faster!
What happens if I use too much?
Using too much Minoxidil can lead to harmful side effects, like chest pain or difficulty breathing.
If you’ve taken too much Minoxidil, call your medical provider or local poison control center (800-222-1222) immediately.
Can I get Minoxidil online?
Need an online prescription for Minoxidil? Dr. B provides same-day hair loss consultations with licensed health providers. If appropriate, they’ll send a prescription to the pharmacy of your choice.
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Side Effects
Some people experience mild side effects like dizziness or lightheadedness while adjusting to the oral form of this medicine. Because of its topical application, the side effects of Minoxidil solution or foam usually relate to skin conditions.
Topical Minoxidil side effects include:
- Redness
- Burning or itching
- Changes in hair texture
- Temporary increase in hair loss, usually in the first few weeks of use
- Dry skin on the scalp
- Hair growth in unwanted places
If any side effects bother you or don’t get better, let your provider know.
Severe side effects can occur if you use too much topical or oral medicine. Or if the topical medicine is applied to a cut, sunburn or infected skin.
Signs of a severe reaction include:
- Dizziness
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Fainting
- Chest pain
- Intense or rapid swelling
- Unusual weight gain
- Tiredness
- Difficulty breathing, especially when lying down
Contact your licensed medical provider or seek emergency help if you notice any of these side effects.
