Minoxidil is a hair loss drug, which is commonly marketed under the names Rogaine or Regaine. This pharmaceutical product was developed to combat heart disease and other disorders of the cardio vascular system; it is a "vasodilator", which means that it widens the veins and capillaries, which in turn helps keep them from becoming clogged and prevents stroke and heart attack and relieves hypertension (very high blood pressure). While it is not commonly used for this purpose, the researchers who developed Minoxidil inadvertently stumbled onto a treatment for [link]male pattern [link]baldness[/link][/link].
A hormone called DHT sometimes builds up in the hair follicles of the scalp, when a significant amount of this hormone has accumulated in a hair follicle it cuts off blood flow. Without a supply of proteins and other nutrients reaching the follicle, the hair attached to it thins and eventually falls out. By significantly widening the capillaries which supply blood to the scalp, it is much more difficult for DHT to completely block off these nutrients. While the drug can be taken orally, and indeed the first versions of it were in capsule form, it is most effective in combating thinning hair and baldness when applied directly to the affected area. It can be purchased without a prescription in most countries
About 80% of men who use Minoxidil said they've noticed a positive difference according to recent surveys, but the clinical research reflected positive results for only about half of men who use it. The success rate increases as age decreases, so Minoxidil is far more effective on those who are younger and perhaps do not have as much DHT built up in their hair follicles. It usually takes about four to six months of using Minoxidil before there is a noticeable change in the hairline and amount of healthy hair follicles. If there is no change after seven months, you should discontinue use; the drug isn't going to work for you.
The most common side effects of Minoxidil are ones which affect the epidermis on which is was applied. Rash, itching, flaking and peeling skin and acne can occur where it is applied. Not surprisingly, there are also side effects which relate to the vascular system, such as dangerously low blood pressure, heart irregularities or an increase in heart rate. Some people report vision problems, and there are various other side effects. Like with many hair loss drugs, sexual side effects do occur; this can manifest itself as a decreased sex drive as well as erectile dysfunction. Unfortunately these can persist after you have stopped using it. One final warning, if you have felines it is best to keep it far out of their reach as exposure to it can be very harmful to them.
Because of the chances Minoxidil will be ineffective in combating hair loss and because of the risk of damaging side effects, many men choose to undergo a hair transplant or use natural supplements. It is your decision to make, but I would simply urge you to weigh the benefits and potential negative effects of Minoxidil before making a decision.
Rogaine and Regaine are trademarks of Pfizer Inc.