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Minoxidil 5 % Topical Spray
Minoxidil is a potassium channel opener that increases blood flow to hair follicles and prolongs the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle.
Minoxidil is a potassium channel opener that increases blood flow to hair follicles and prolongs the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle. Used for Androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness), Female pattern hair loss.
At a glance
| Generic name | Minoxidil 5 % Topical Spray |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | Sheikh Zayed Federal Postgraduate Medical Institute |
| Drug class | Potassium channel opener / Topical hair growth stimulant |
| Target | ATP-sensitive potassium channels (KATP) |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Dermatology |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Minoxidil acts as a vasodilator by opening ATP-sensitive potassium channels, which increases cutaneous blood flow to hair follicles and delivers more nutrients and oxygen to the dermal papilla. This stimulation extends the growth phase of hair and may increase hair follicle size, promoting hair regrowth in androgenetic alopecia. The exact mechanism in hair growth is not fully elucidated but involves improved follicle nutrition and potentially direct effects on follicle stem cells.
Approved indications
- Androgenetic alopecia (male and female pattern hair loss)
Common side effects
- Scalp irritation
- Dryness or flaking of scalp
- Itching
- Unwanted facial hair growth
- Contact dermatitis
Key clinical trials
- Topical Methotrexate vs Minoxidil for Localized Alopecia Areata (PHASE4)
- Comparison of Outcomes Between Topical Minoxidil Versus Oral Minoxidil for the Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia (PHASE3)
- Minoxidil for Treating White Hair: A Randomized Controlled Trial (PHASE4)
- Various Procedural Treatment Options for Androgenetic Alopecia (PHASE2)
- Clinical Study of Probiotic Treatment for Androgenetic Alopecia (PHASE3)
- Efficacy and Safety of Topical Vitamin D Analogue in Treatment of Female Pattern Hair Loss (PHASE1, PHASE2)
- Topical Cetirizine in Androgenetic Alopecia in Females (PHASE2, PHASE3)
- Role of Minoxidil in Alopecia Areata Transepidermal Drug Delivery of Minoxidil Via Either Fractional Carbon Dioxide Laser or Microneedling Versus Its Topical Nanoparticles Preparation for Treatment of Alopecia Areata (NA)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
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