Storage
Store at room temperature (59°F to 86°F / 15°C to 30°C). Keep the bottle tightly closed and away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight.
Instructions
This information is for individuals who have been prescribed oral minoxidil by an Alan Health provider.
Oral minoxidil is a once-daily prescription tablet used off-label to treat hair thinning and pattern hair loss. Your provider will determine the appropriate dose based on your needs and medical history.
How to Take Oral Minoxidil
- Take once daily, with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.
- Do not double up if you miss a dose—just resume your regular schedule.
- Stay consistent. Like all hair loss treatments, results build gradually over time.
- Avoid stopping suddenly without checking with your provider.
If you have questions during treatment or notice any side effects, reach out to your Alan Health provider for support.
Understanding your insulin syringe
Measuring your dose
Insulin syringes are used for subcutaneous injections. They are marked in Units on the insulin syringe barrel (see illustration). Insulin syringes facilitate the precise measurement of tiny amounts of liquids which are ideal for medications such as insulin that require small and accurate dosing. Unit marks are also expressed in mL’s and can be interchangeably referenced. A prescriber may write a prescription in Units or in mL’s.
Within the amount of liquid is the prescribed mg dosage of your medication (see mg chart). Milligrams (mg) is not an amount of liquid, but rather the amount of drug that is within. The conversion between units and milligrams varies depending on the concentration of the product being used.
What can I expect?
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Safety information
The most common side effects of oral minoxidil include fluid retention, increased hair growth in unintended areas, dizziness, and low blood pressure.
In rare cases, more serious side effects may occur, such as heart palpitations, chest pain, swelling in the hands or feet, or shortness of breath. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
A full list of potential side effects can be found here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Oral Minoxidil used for?
Oral minoxidil is a low-dose prescription medication used off-label to treat hair thinning and pattern hair loss in both men and women. It promotes regrowth by increasing blood flow to the scalp and reactivating dormant hair follicles. Women will typically start on 1.25mg and, based on how you respond to the medication, titrate up to 2.5mg. Men typically start on 2.5mg.
How is Oral Minoxidil different from topical minoxidil?
While both forms help stimulate hair growth, oral minoxidil works systemically—throughout the body—rather than being applied directly to the scalp. Many people prefer it for its ease of use and because it avoids common issues like scalp irritation or inconsistent application.
When will I see results?
Most users begin to see visible results within 3 to 6 months of consistent daily use. Staying on track is key—results build gradually over time. Read more about the process and what to expect here.
Is it safe for long-term use?
Yes—when taken as directed and monitored by your provider, oral minoxidil is generally well tolerated over the long term. Your provider will assess your medical history and adjust the dose if needed.
Can I combine Oral Minoxidil with other hair loss treatments?
Combining treatments, such as using oral Minoxidil with topical solutions or other medications, should only be done under the guidance of your healthcare provider to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Can both men and women use Oral Minoxidil?
Yes. Oral minoxidil can be prescribed to both men and women for hair loss. Your provider will tailor the dose and plan based on your goals and health profile.
What happens if I stop taking Oral Minoxidil?
Hair regrowth may gradually reverse over time. For ongoing results, continued use under provider supervision is recommended.
What are the potential side effects?
Oral minoxidil is generally well tolerated, especially at the low doses used for hair loss. Some people may notice mild effects like increased body hair or occasional lightheadedness. Serious side effects are rare, and your provider will help monitor for anything unexpected during treatment.
Additional support
For details about your medication and dosing, please log in to your patient portal. Your physician is here to help with any medical questions. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 right away.
