Minoxidil was first used exclusively as an oral drug (trade name Loniten) to treat high blood pressure. However, it was discovered to have an interesting side-effect:[1] Minoxidil may cause increased growth or darkening of fine body hairs, or in some cases, significant hair loss. When the medication is discontinued, the hair will return to normal within 30 to 60 days. Upjohn Corporation produced a topical solution that contained 2% minoxidil to be used to treat baldness and hair loss, under the brand name Rogaine in the United States and Canada, and Regaine in Europe and the Asia-Pacific. Treatments usually include a 5% concentration solution that is designed for men, whereas the 2% concentration solutions are designed for women. The patent on minoxidil expired on February 11, 1996.[2]
Manufactured by Pharmacia & Upjohn. This product claims 45% more hair regrowth than Regular Strength Rogaine (2% Rogaine). Although this may be true Rogaine 2% grew very little or no hair on most people. Rogaine 2% appears to be more effective with women and is usually the first course of treatment in female pattern hair loss. (Currently 5% Rogaine is not recommended for women.)
The solution is approved and available in two strengths -- Regular (2%) and Extra Strength (5%). Individual users of regular strength Rogaine have claimed success rates of 30-40%. Meanwhile, users of Extra Strength Rogaine have claimed success rates of 50-60%. Currently, the average price for a 2oz. bottle of Rogaine is about $20-30 per month. Minoxidil is also available as a generic and can be purchased over the counter without prescription.
Rogaine users with severe, refractory high blood pressure experienced some problems. One such problem was gld"hypertrichosis,erd" hair growth on the face or other bodily areas. This side effect appears in about 3-5 % of women who use the 2% solution, and higher among women using the 5% solution.
