Clinical Information
Use as directed by your healthcare provider. Apply the prescribed amount to clean, dry scalp once daily or as instructed. If you miss a dose, apply it when you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double up on doses. Wash hands after application and allow the solution to dry before styling hair or going to bed.
Minoxidil opens potassium channels in scalp blood vessels. This widens the vessels and improves blood flow, bringing oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles. The medicine quickly starts working under the skin, but visible results often take 3–6 months because hair grows slowly. Tretinoin increases skin cell turnover and lightly peels the outer scalp layer. This helps more minoxidil get into the follicles and may wake up dormant hairs. Used together, the two medicines extend the hair growth phase and can thicken strands and reduce shedding. Benefits last only with continued use.
Do not use if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding (tretinoin may harm an unborn baby). Do not use if you are allergic to minoxidil, tretinoin, or any ingredients in this solution. Do not apply to broken, infected, or sunburned scalp skin. Avoid if you have severe heart disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or a history of scalp cancers unless cleared by your healthcare provider. Not for use in children under 18.
Using other topical scalp products like corticosteroids, retinoids, or salicylic acid at the same time may increase irritation. Oral blood pressure medicines (such as metoprolol or lisinopril) can rarely cause low blood pressure when combined with minoxidil; monitor for dizziness. Avoid other vitamin A–based acne treatments (e.g., isotretinoin) because they can add to skin dryness. Limit alcohol‐based hair sprays or gels that may worsen scalp dryness. Tell your healthcare provider about all prescription drugs, over‐the‐counter medicines, supplements, and herbal products you use.
Very common (affects more than 1 in 10 people): mild scalp itching, dryness, or flaking that often improves after a few weeks. Common (affects 1–10 in 100 people): temporary increase in hair shedding during the first 2–6 weeks, scalp redness, burning feeling, oily or dry hair. Uncommon (affects 1–10 in 1,000 people): unwanted facial hair growth in women, headaches, mild dizziness, darkening of scalp skin. Rare but serious: severe allergic reaction (rash, swelling of face or lips, trouble breathing), chest pain, rapid heartbeat, fainting. Stop use and seek medical help right away if serious reactions occur.
Store at room temperature (68–77°F, 20–25°C) in the original tightly closed container. Keep away from heat, open flame, and direct sunlight because the solution is flammable. Do not freeze. Protect from moisture and do not store in the bathroom. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Dispose of unused or expired solution through a pharmacy take-back program or mix with used coffee grounds in a sealed bag before throwing in household trash.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:How long before I see new hair growth?
A:Most people notice less shedding after 4–8 weeks and visible thickening after 3–6 months. Full results may take up to 12 months. Keep using the solution daily, because stopping will cause new hairs to fall out over time.
Q:Should I apply the solution on wet or dry hair?
A:Apply it to a clean, completely dry scalp. Wet or damp hair can water down the dose and reduce how much medicine soaks in. Let the solution dry before using styling products or going to bed.
Q:Can I use this if I color or perm my hair?
A:Yes, but apply the solution after any chemical treatment, not before. Wait at least 24 hours after coloring, perming, or relaxing to reduce scalp irritation. Tell your stylist you are using a medicated scalp product.
Q:What if the solution drips onto my forehead or face?
A:Wipe it off right away with a damp cloth and wash the area with mild soap. Prolonged contact can cause unwanted facial hair growth or skin irritation.
Q:Can women use this 5% strength?
A:Many women can use 5% minoxidil, but higher strengths may increase facial hair growth. Your healthcare provider will decide if it is right for you and may adjust the dose or frequency to limit side effects.
Q:Is it safe to drink alcohol while using this medication?
A:Alcohol in moderation does not affect the medicine, but heavy drinking can widen blood vessels and may add to dizziness or low blood pressure in rare cases. Drink responsibly and talk with your healthcare provider if you have concerns.
Related Products
Minoxidil | Fluocinolone Acetonide | Tretinoin | Vitamin E Acetate Solution
This prescription spray is applied to the scalp to encourage hair growth, calm irritation, and support overall scalp health. It combines Minoxidil to stimulate follicles, Fluocinolone to reduce inflammation, Tretinoin to speed up cell turnover and boost absorption, and Vitamin E Acetate to provide antioxidant moisture. The formula is alcohol-based for fast drying and is meant to stay on the scalp—do not rinse out. Visible improvement usually takes several months of consistent use.
Eflornithine Cream
Eflornithine Cream is used to slow the growth of unwanted facial or body hair. It works on the hair follicles just under the skin. When used as directed, it can make hair grow back more slowly and finer. It is for external use only and should be applied in a thin layer to the affected skin.
Minoxidil | Finasteride Topical Solution
This compounded topical solution contains 5% minoxidil and 0.1% finasteride to help slow hair thinning and encourage new hair growth. It is applied directly to the scalp. The combination targets multiple pathways that cause male-pattern hair loss. This product is made by prescription only and is not FDA-approved as a finished drug product, but each ingredient is FDA-approved for other uses.