Generic Rogaine

Chemical Name: MINOXIDIL

Common uses

This medicine is used to treat the bald spot in male pattern baldness. In females, it is used to treat diffuse hair loss or thinning on the scalp in the frontal areas.

Before using

Oral minoxidil can cause a fall in blood pressure, an increase in the heart rate, and weight gain (fluid retention). Patients with heart failure or significant coronary heart disease should avoid Rogaine. Rogaine's alcohol base can irritate the eyes. Rogaine should not be used with other topical medications because they may increase its absorption and side effects. Rogaine should be used with caution in those with high blood pressure.

Do not use Rogaine if the skin on your scalp is damaged, irritated, or sunburned. This may allow more of the medication to be absorbed by your body, which could be dangerous. Do not use this medication on any part of your body other than your scalp. Application to other body parts can be dangerous.

Directions

Rogaine has to be applied on the scalp at least twice daily and for at least four months to see results. Rogaine works less well in patients that are older, have larger areas of baldness, and have been bald for longer periods of time. Rogaine should be applied to a normal dry scalp only and left in place for at least four hours. Rogaine must be continued in order to maintain or increase the hair growth achieved. Should be stored at room temperature.

If you miss a dose use the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and use only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not use a double dose of this medication.

Cautions

Rogaine should not be used in pregnancy and by nursing women.

Possible side effects

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop using Rogaine and seek: an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); chest pain; irregular or very fast heartbeats; dizziness or lightheadedness; fainting.

Continue to use Rogaine and talk to your doctor when it is convenient if you experience itching, redness, dryness, or flaking of the scalp; a headache. Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

If you take too much

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Additional information

Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children and pets. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.