ALOXIDIL ® - Minoxidil

ALOXIDIL ® is a drug based on Mioxidil

THERAPEUTIC GROUP: Dermatological preparations for local use

IndicationsAction mechanismStudies and clinical effectiveness Usage and dosage instructionsWarnings Pregnancy and lactationInteractionsContraindicationsUndesirable effects

Indications ALOXIDIL ® - Minoxidil

ALOXIDIL ® is a minoxidil-based lotion to be used for topical use in the symptomatic treatment of androgenetic alopecia.

Mechanism of action ALOXIDIL ® - Minoxidil

ALOXIDIL ® is a drug based on Minoxidil, an active ingredient known to cardiologists for its marked antihypertensive activities guaranteed by the vasodilatory effect exercised through hyperpolarization of arteriolar smooth muscle cells.

The transition to the dermatological specialty was determined by the appearance of some side effects of therapy with this active ingredient: such as hair and hair growth.

Today minoxidil, whose use in cardiology has been almost completely forgotten, together with finasteride is the preferred therapy for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia.

In order for this active ingredient to perform a predominantly dermatological activity, while reducing potential systemic side effects, it must be applied topically.

Studies carried out and clinical efficacy

1. POSSIBLE MECHANISM OF ACTION OF MINOXIDIL

Study that attempts to characterize the mechanism of action of minoxidil on the hair follicle. Researchers demonstrate how this active ingredient can induce expression of active B-catenin by allowing hair follicles to maintain an active growth phase.

2. CASE REPORT: SYSTEMIC TOXICITY OF MINOXIDIL

Case report Italian demonstrating how prolonged treatment with topical minoxidil has been responsible for systemic effects such as central serous chorioretinopathy. This represents one of the first cases of systemic side effects related to topical use of minoxidil.

3. CHEMOTHERAPY-TREATED ALOPECIA TREATMENT

Work that demonstrates how 2% minoxidil therapy to accelerate regrowth after baldness induced by chemotherapy can significantly improve the quality of life of affected patients, especially if they are women.

Method of use and dosage

ALOXIDIL ®

Topical solution with 2% minoxidil:

ALOXIDIL ® should be applied exclusively on the scalp affected by baldness, for a maximum of 2 ml daily for about 3-4 months, time necessary for the appearance of the first therapeutic effects.

The presence of the dropper allows the patient to be extremely precise in formulating the dosage.

In any case, the doctor must define the dosage and timing of the recruitment, explaining all the hygiene rules to be used during therapy with ALOXIDIL ®

Warnings ALOXIDIL ® - Minoxidil

Prolonged use of ALOXIDIL ® could cause a greater susceptibility of the scalp to irritative pathologies, making the application of minoxidil particularly unpleasant.

At the same time, these skin disorders could determine an increased absorption of the active ingredient via the skin, with possible systemic effects.

Therefore the appearance of the first side effects both systemic and dermatological would be advisable to consult your doctor and possibly opt for the suspension of therapy.

PREGNANCY AND BREASTFEEDING

The absence of significant clinical trials and the presence of pharmacokinetic studies demonstrating the secretion of minoxidil through breast milk, do not allow defining the safety profile of ALOXIDIL ®, thereby contraindicating its use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Interactions

No clinically relevant drug interactions related to the simultaneous administration of minoxidil and other active ingredients are currently known.

ALOXIDIL ® therapy could in rare cases increase the possibility of orthostatic hypotension in patients undergoing antihypertensive therapy with vasodilators.

Contraindications ALOXIDIL ® - Minoxidil

The use of ALOXIDIL ® is contraindicated in case of coronary heart disease, arrhythmias, congestive heart failure, valvular heart disease and medium to severe cardiovascular diseases.

ALOXIDIL ® should also be avoided in the event of hypersensitivity to the active ingredient or to one of its excipients.

Undesirable effects - Side effects

ALOXIDIL ® therapy is generally well tolerated, accompanied at the most by local dermatological reactions such as dehydration, scaling, irritation, dermatitis and erythema.

Clinically relevant side effects such as alterations in blood pressure, changes in heart rate, chest pains, liver, kidney and erectile dysfunction are decidedly more rare.