Minoxidil; Frequent Questions and Answers-2

Q 2-15.
Is there Allergy to Minoxidil?

A 2-15.

The most common side effects of topical minoxidil are redness, itching and dandruff on the scalp. These are symptoms of inflammation and contact dermatitis on the scalp, which is caused by propylene glycol and alcohol contained in the minoxidil solution.

Other side effects of minoxidil include peripheral vasodilatation, fall in blood pressure, increased heart rate, headache, dizziness, and water retention. These symptoms are not true allergic reactions to minoxidil.

The true allergic reaction to minoxidil includes anaphylaxis which may appear even at the first usage of topical minoxidil. A patient will complain of symptoms such as skin rash on the body and extremities, swelling on face and lips, and difficulty in breathing even after usage of topical minoxidil for the first time.

Patients with a history of hypersensitivity and an anaphylactic reaction to any kind of medicine must not use minoxidil.

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