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Rogaine

Drug class: Miscellaneous Topical Agents

What is Rogaine?

Rogaine can be used to regrow hair on your scalp. It is unknown how minoxidil works. It's possible that minoxidil dilates blood vessels in the scalp, which could improve hair follicle functions and stimulate hair growth. Rogaine does not permanently cause the regrowth of hair on your scalp. Continue using the product in order to maintain the growth of your hair.

Warnings

Rogaine should not be used if your scalp skin is sunburned, damaged, or irritated. This could allow for more medication to be absorbed into your body. Rogaine should only be used on the scalp. Other body parts may be hazardous if used. Use only Rogaine during the treatment. If your doctor has prescribed otherwise, do not use any other topical product on your scalp.

Before you take this drug

Rogaine should not be used if your scalp skin is infected, irritated, or red. This could allow for more medication to be absorbed into your body. Rogaine is not suitable for all types of hair loss. Only use the Rogaine formulation that is appropriate for your gender. Minoxidil products made for men should not be used by women. If you have other medical conditions or concerns, always speak to your physician or pharmacist about whether taking medicine will be safe.

  • Heart disease

Rogaine is in FDA pregnancy category C. There is no information on whether Rogaine can harm an unborn child. If you are pregnant, do not take this medication without consulting your doctor. There is no way to know if minoxidil topical can pass into breast milk or if it would harm a baby who was nursing. If you are breastfeeding a child, do not use Rogaine unless your doctor has advised you to. Rogaine should not be used on anyone younger than 18 without consulting a doctor.

Similar/related drugs

Triamcinolone, Minoxidil Topical, Kenalog-40, Olumiant, Baricitinib, and Kenalog-10

How to take Rogaine?

Follow the instructions on the label or those given by your doctor. Use only the recommended dosage. Do not exceed it. This medicine is not recommended to be taken in excess. It can cause side effects that are dangerous. The patient instructions accompany this medicine and ensure safe and effective usage. Please follow the instructions carefully.If you have questions, consult your physician or pharmacist immediately. Before applying Rogaine, make sure your hair is completely dry. Use the recommended amount on the affected scalp areas. The usual application of Rogaine occurs twice a day, morning and night. After applying Rogaine, wash your hands. Rogaine should only be used on the scalp. Use it only on your scalp. You may not notice any new hair for up to four months. The new hair is usually soft, colorless, and barely noticeable. The hair will eventually have the same thickness and color as your existing hair. If you don't see hair growth within 4 months, speak to your doctor. Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature. Avoid putting the canister near an open flame or a source of high heat. For example, in your car on a warm day. If the canister gets too warm, it may explode. Empty canisters should not be punctured or burned.

Details on dosage

Adult dose for alopecia:

Solution:
Apply 1 mL to the affected areas of the scalp, twice daily. Do not exceed 2 ml per day.
Foam:
Use a half-capful of this product topically on the scalp affected area or areas twice daily.

What happens if I miss the dose?

As soon as you recall, apply the missed dose. If it's almost time to take your next dose, skip the missed dose. Don't use extra medicine to compensate for a missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Overdoses of Rogaine are not considered dangerous. If anyone accidentally swallows the medication, seek emergency medical care or call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222.

What should be avoided?

Avoid getting the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth. Rinse the affected area with water if this happens. Do not use other skin care products on areas that you have treated with Rogaine unless you are told to by your doctor.

Side effects of Rogaine

If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your lips, face, or throat. Rogaine can cause side effects, even though the risks are low.

If you experience:

  • Severe scalp irritation
  • Unwanted growth of facial hair
  • Chest pain, fast heartbeats;
  • Rapid weight gain; swelling of the hands and feet;
  • A feeling of lightheadedness, as if you could pass out.
  • Headache, dizziness, confusion, or
  • Flushing (warmth, redness, or tingling feeling)

Some of the common side effects that Rogaine can cause include:

  • Changes in your hair's color or texture

There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.

Interaction with other drug

Minoxidil applied topically is unlikely to be affected by other drugs taken orally or injected. Many drugs interact. Inform your healthcare providers of all the medicines you take, including vitamins, herbal products, prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, and other drugs.