Rogaine

Generic Name: minoxidil topical (mi NOX i dill)

Brand Names: Rogaine, Rogaine Extra Strength, Ronoxidil

What is Rogaine?

The exact way that Rogaine works is not known. It is possible that it dilates blood vessels in the scalp, which may improve hair follicle function and stimulate hair growth.

Rogaine is used to treat male pattern baldness in patients who are experiencing gradually thinning hair on the top of the head.

Rogaine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Important information about Rogaine

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 Rogaine on any part of your body other than your scalp. Application to other body parts can be dangerous.

Do not use other topical products on your scalp during treatment with Rogaine, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

Before using Rogaine

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.

Before using Rogaine tell your doctor if you have heart disease. Minoxidil absorbed by the body can affect the heart.

Rogaine is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether Rogaine will be harmful to an unborn to baby. Do not use Rogaine without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Minoxidil may affect a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use Rogaine?

Use Rogaine exactly as directed by your doctor or as directed in the package labeling. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Dry your hair and scalp before applying Rogaine.

Apply the prescribed amount, usually 1 mL, to the affected areas of the scalp. Rogaine is usually applied twice daily, in the morning and at night.

Wash your hands after applying Rogaine.

Avoid getting Rogaine in the eyes, nose, or mouth. If this occurs, rinse the area with water.

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 more than 2 mL of Rogaine in one day. More medication will not increase or hasten hair growth but it may cause dangerous side effects.

Do not use Rogaine on any part of your body other than your scalp. Application to other body parts can be dangerous.

It may take 4 months or more before new hair growth is seen. New hair is usually soft, colorless, and barely visible. With further treatment, the hair will become similar in color and thickness to existing hair.

If no hair growth is seen after 4 months of treatment, discontinuation of Rogaine should be considered.

If treatment is discontinued, new hair growth will usually be shed within a few months.

Store Rogaine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I 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 Rogaine.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of Rogaine is not likely to occur.

If an unusually large dose is applied, or if the medication is ingested, seek emergency medical attention.

Symptoms of a Rogaine overdose are not known but may include very low blood pressure (fainting, dizziness, confusion); an irregular or fast heart rate; headache; and flushing (redness, warmth) of the skin.

What should I avoid while using Rogaine?

Do not use Rogaine on any part of your body other than your scalp. Application to other body parts can be dangerous.

Do not use other topical products on your scalp during treatment with this medication, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

Rogaine side effects

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop using this medication and seek emergency medical attention:

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an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);

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chest pain;

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irregular or very fast heartbeats;

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dizziness or lightheadedness; or

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fainting.

Continue to use Rogaine and talk to your doctor when it is convenient if you experience

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itching, redness, dryness, or flaking of the scalp; or

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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. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Rogaine?

Do not use other topical products on your scalp during treatment with this medication, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Rogaine or affect your condition. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before using any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.