Minoxidil
- Generic Name
- Minoxidil
- Brand Names
- Loniten, Minox, Regoxidine, Rogaine
- Drug Type
- Small Molecule
- Chemical Formula
- C9H15N5O
- CAS Number
- 38304-91-5
- Unique Ingredient Identifier
- 5965120SH1
- Background
A potent direct-acting peripheral vasodilator (vasodilator agents) that reduces peripheral resistance and produces a fall in blood pressure.
- Indication
For the treatment of severe hypertension and in the topical treatment (regrowth) of androgenic alopecia in males and females and stabilisation of hair loss in patients with androgenic alopecia.
- Associated Conditions
- Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA), Severe, symptomatic Hypertension
FDA Warns of Serious Side Effects from Unapproved Topical Finasteride Hair Loss Treatments
• The FDA has issued a warning about unapproved topical formulations of finasteride (generic Propecia) sold through telehealth companies, citing 32 reports of serious adverse events including suicidal thoughts and erectile dysfunction.
• Unlike FDA-approved oral finasteride (Propecia and Proscar), these compounded topical versions lack comprehensive safety data and regulatory scrutiny, yet are widely promoted on social media with minimal risk disclosure.
• Medical experts have raised concerns that telehealth companies may prioritize prescription volume over patient safety, with some patients reporting they weren't adequately informed about potential severe side effects.
Baricitinib Shows Promising Hair Regrowth Results in Adolescents with Severe Alopecia Areata in Phase 3 Trial
• Eli Lilly's baricitinib demonstrated significant scalp hair regrowth in adolescents with severe alopecia areata, with results at 36 weeks comparable to what adults achieved after 52 weeks of treatment.
• The BRAVE-AA-PEDS study, the largest JAK inhibitor trial dedicated to adolescents with alopecia areata, showed approximately 60% of patients achieved ≥50% hair regrowth, suggesting faster response rates in younger patients.
• Baricitinib's safety profile in adolescents was consistent with previous trials in juvenile idiopathic arthritis and atopic dermatitis, with common adverse events including acne, influenza, and upper respiratory tract infections.
Low-Dose Minoxidil Safely Treats Hair Loss in Women Undergoing Breast Cancer Treatment
• A recent study indicates that low-dose oral minoxidil (LDOM) is a safe and effective treatment for hair loss in women undergoing breast cancer treatment.
• The research showed that LDOM, at a dosage of 1.25 mg per day, led to hair regrowth or stabilization of hair loss within 3 to 6 months.
• The study found no serious cardiovascular side effects, even in patients who underwent chemotherapy with cardiotoxic agents.
• Experts suggest that LDOM can help restore a sense of self and control for patients experiencing alopecia due to cancer treatment.
Drug Development Updates
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