Minoxidil | Dutasteride | Tretinoin (PG-free) Solution

This medication works in several ways to support hair growth. Minoxidil helps widen small blood vessels in the scalp and may move more hair follicles into the active growth phase, which can help hairs grow longer and thicker over time. Dutasteride blocks the enzymes called 5-alpha-reductase type 1 and type 2, which lowers dihydrotestosterone, also called DHT, in the scalp. DHT is a hormone linked to pattern hair loss in many men. Tretinoin increases skin cell turnover and may help the other ingredients move into the upper layers of the scalp more effectively. Some people may notice increased shedding early in treatment as older hairs fall out before new growth begins. Early changes may appear after 2 to 4 months, but fuller results often take 3 to 6 months or longer. Benefits usually continue only while treatment is continued as prescribed.

Do not use if you are allergic to minoxidil, dutasteride, tretinoin, other retinoids, or any ingredient in the compounded solution. Do not use if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding because dutasteride and tretinoin may harm an unborn baby. Women who are or may become pregnant should avoid handling this medication unless specifically instructed by a healthcare provider. Do not use on sunburned, infected, cut, bleeding, or severely irritated scalp skin because this may increase irritation and absorption. Do not use if you have a history of severe reaction to topical retinoids. Do not use in children unless specifically prescribed by a qualified clinician. Use with extra caution and only under medical advice if you have heart disease, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, uncontrolled high or low blood pressure, significant liver disease, or unexplained hair loss that is sudden, patchy, or associated with scalp inflammation.

This medication may interact with other treatments used on the scalp or skin. Using it with other irritating products such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, harsh dandruff products, alcohol-based scalp products, or prescription acne and retinoid medicines may raise the risk of redness, burning, peeling, and dryness. Minoxidil may increase dizziness or low blood pressure in people taking blood pressure medicines, especially vasodilators or multiple blood pressure drugs, although this is less common with topical use. Dutasteride may interact with medicines that affect liver enzymes, such as ketoconazole, ritonavir, verapamil, or diltiazem, which could increase drug levels if enough is absorbed through the skin. Other 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors such as finasteride or oral dutasteride may increase the chance of hormone-related side effects. Limit heavy alcohol use if it makes you lightheaded. Tell your healthcare provider about all prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, vitamins, herbal supplements, and topical scalp products before use.

Common side effects include scalp itching, dryness, redness, flaking, burning, peeling, and mild irritation at the application site. Some patients notice increased hair shedding in the first several weeks to two months; this can happen as hair cycles shift and may improve with continued treatment. Less common side effects include headache, dizziness, unwanted hair growth on the face or body from accidental spread, and skin sensitivity to sunlight. Uncommon but important side effects may include breast tenderness, lower sex drive, sexual side effects, or mood changes if dutasteride is absorbed. Rare but serious side effects include chest pain, fast heartbeat, fainting, swelling of the hands or feet, severe rash, blistering, eye irritation from accidental contact, or signs of allergic reaction such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat. Stop use and seek medical care right away if serious side effects occur. Mild irritation may improve by reducing frequency only if your prescriber advises it.

Store at room temperature, ideally between 68-77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C), unless your pharmacist gives different instructions for this compounded preparation. Keep tightly closed and protect from heat, direct light, and excess moisture. Do not store in the bathroom, near sinks, or in a hot car. Keep out of reach of children and pets. For external use only. Because this is a compounded medication, use it by the beyond-use date on the pharmacy label. Dispose of unused or expired medication through a pharmacy take-back program when available, or follow your pharmacist's disposal instructions.