Minoxidil: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan

Minoxidil is a topical hair regrowth treatment. It is used for hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) in men and women. In Pakistan it is available as solution and sprays, made by 5 different manufacturers. On this page you can read how it works, its common side effects and precautions, and compare the brands and prices available at Medimart.

How Minoxidil works

Minoxidil was first used as a blood pressure medicine. Applied to the scalp, it widens small blood vessels around the hair follicles and helps keep follicles in their growing phase for longer. Over time, thin hairs can become thicker and longer.

What is Minoxidil used for?

• Hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) in men and women

Minoxidil solution or foam is applied to the scalp to slow hair loss and help regrowth in male and female pattern hair loss. It works best for people in the earlier stages of thinning, particularly on the crown. It is not intended for sudden or patchy hair loss, or hair loss after childbirth or illness, which should be checked by a doctor.

Side effects of Minoxidil

Minoxidil mostly causes effects on the scalp. Commonly reported ones are:

• Scalp itching, dryness or flaking
• Redness or irritation where applied
• Temporary increase in shedding at the start
• Unwanted hair growth on the face
• Headache

Stop using it and see a doctor for chest pain, a fast heartbeat, dizziness or fainting, or sudden weight gain or swelling of the hands or feet.

Precautions and warnings

• Apply only to a dry, healthy scalp, not to skin that is sunburnt, broken or irritated, and wash your hands afterwards.
• Results take several months to appear, and new hair is gradually lost if you stop using it.
• Avoid contact with the eyes and do not apply it to other parts of the body.
• Tell your doctor if you have heart disease or low blood pressure before using it.
• It is not recommended for people under 18 or during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Frequently asked questions about Minoxidil

What is the price of Minoxidil in Pakistan?

At Medimart, Minoxidil products currently in stock range from Rs 560 to Rs 1,885 per pack, depending on the brand, strength and pack size. The lowest-priced option right now is Follinox 2% Hair Spray at Rs 560. Prices are updated regularly, so the product list on this page always shows the latest price.

Which brands of Minoxidil are available in Pakistan?

Minoxidil is sold in Pakistan under brand names such as Hair (Sante Limited), Regro (Seattle Pharma Pakistan Pvt Ltd), Piligrow (Whiz Laboratries), Minoxin (Brookes Pharmaceutical Labs (Pak) Ltd), Follinox (Maxitech Health Care), Pillus (Maxitech Health Care) and Higrow (Shaigan Pharmaceuticals Ltd).

Do I need a prescription for Minoxidil?

Minoxidil is generally available without a prescription. Read the leaflet before use and ask a pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure, especially for children, during pregnancy, or if you take other medicines.

Can Minoxidil be used during pregnancy?

It is not recommended for people under 18 or during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Are all Minoxidil brands the same?

Brands that contain the same amount of Minoxidil in the same form are expected to work in the same way, although inactive ingredients, pack sizes and prices differ. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching from one brand to another.

Minoxidil brands and prices in Pakistan

Medimart lists 9 products containing Minoxidil from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.

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