Important Info about Minoxidil

What is Minoxidil?

Minoxidil is a topical treatment used to address hair loss and stimulate hair regrowth. It works by increasing blood flow to hair follicles, revitalizing shrinking follicles, and promoting new hair growth. Minoxidil is FDA-approved for use in men and women with pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia). Minoxidil should only be used on the scalp as directed and is not intended for children under 18 years old or anyone without a diagnosis of hair loss.

Who should not use Minoxidil?

Do not use Minoxidil if you:

• Are allergic to Minoxidil or any of its ingredients.
• Have a damaged, irritated, or infected scalp, as this can increase absorption and the risk of side effects.
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your doctor before use).
  
  

Always speak with a healthcare professional to determine if Minoxidil is safe and appropriate for your hair loss concerns.

How should I use Minoxidil?

Minoxidil should be applied exactly as directed:

• Apply 1 mL or the recommended amount directly to the scalp in areas of hair thinning or loss, twice daily.
• Ensure your scalp is clean and dry before application.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after applying to prevent accidental transfer to other areas.
• Do not exceed the recommended dosage or frequency; this will not improve results and may increase the risk of side effects.
  
  

Consistency is key—results may take 3 to 6 months to become noticeable. Discontinuing use may lead to the return of hair loss.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking Minoxidil?

Before starting Minoxidil, inform your healthcare provider about:

• Any scalp conditions or skin sensitivities you may have.
• Any medications, supplements, or treatments you are currently using.
• Your medical history, including heart disease, as Minoxidil can affect blood pressure.
  
  

Providing complete information ensures your healthcare provider can advise you safely and effectively.

What are the most serious side effects?

The most serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention. These may include:

• Chest pain, rapid heartbeat, or dizziness.
• Severe scalp irritation, including persistent redness, burning, or itching.
• Unusual swelling in the hands or feet (fluid retention).
  
  

If these side effects occur, stop using Minoxidil and consult your doctor.

What are the most common side effects?

Common side effects include:

• Mild scalp irritation, dryness, or flaking.
• Unwanted hair growth in non-scalp areas if accidentally applied elsewhere.
  
  

These side effects are generally mild and temporary. Contact your doctor if they persist or worsen.

Additional safety information

Minoxidil is for external use only. Avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, or other sensitive areas. Keep the product out of reach of children and store it at room temperature. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as it may increase the risk of dizziness or fainting.

Reporting side effects

To report side effects in the Philippines, contact the Philippine Food and Drug Administration (FDA) through their Adverse Drug Reaction (ADR) Reporting System or call +63 2-8809-5596.

For complete instructions and additional details, consult your healthcare provider or refer to the product leaflet.

Important Info about Finasteride

What is Finasteride?

Finasteride is an oral prescription medication used to treat male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia) by reducing levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to hair follicle shrinkage. Finasteride helps slow hair loss and, in many cases, promotes regrowth, particularly on the crown and middle of the scalp. Finasteride is FDA-approved for use in men and is not recommended for use in women or children.

Who should not use Finasteride?

Do not use Finasteride if you:

• You are allergic to Finasteride or any of its ingredients.
• You are pregnant or may become pregnant, as Finasteride can cause birth defects if absorbed through the skin or ingested.
• You are already taking other medications containing Finasteride.
  
  

Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider to determine if Finasteride is safe and appropriate for you.

How should I take Finasteride?

Finasteride should be taken exactly as directed:

• Take one tablet daily, as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Finasteride can be taken with or without food.
• Consistency is essential—take it at the same time every day for the best results.
• Do not skip doses, and do not take more than the prescribed amount.
  
  

It may take 3 to 6 months of consistent use to see noticeable results. Discontinuing Finasteride may result in the return of hair loss.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking Finasteride?

Before starting Finasteride, inform your healthcare provider about:

• Any allergies you may have.
• Any existing liver conditions, as Finasteride is metabolized in the liver.
• Your medications, supplements, or treatments you are currently using.
• Your plans to father a child, as Finasteride may affect fertility in rare cases.
  
  

Providing complete information helps your healthcare provider determine if Finasteride is suitable for you.

What are the most serious side effects?

The most serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention:

• Swelling of the face, lips, or throat (allergic reaction).
• Breast lumps, pain, or nipple discharge (could indicate male breast cancer).
• Depression or mood changes.
  
  

These side effects are usually mild and temporary. If they persist or worsen, consult your doctor.

What are the most common side effects?

Common side effects include:

• Decreased libido.
• Erectile dysfunction.
• Reduced semen volume.
  
  

These side effects are generally mild and temporary. Contact your doctor if they persist or worsen.

Additional safety information

Finasteride is not approved for use in women or children. Pregnant women should not handle broken or crushed tablets, as the active ingredient can be absorbed through the skin and cause harm to a developing fetus. Finasteride does not prevent hair loss caused by other conditions or factors. Store Finasteride at room temperature and keep it out of reach of children.

Reporting side effects

To report side effects in the Philippines, contact the Philippine Food and Drug Administration (FDA) through their Adverse Drug Reaction (ADR) Reporting System or call +63 2-8809-5596.

For complete instructions and additional details, consult your healthcare provider or refer to the product leaflet.