Using Minoxidil Concentrations above 5 % : Is it worth it?

Minoxidil Concentrations beyond 5 %

Everyday, patients come into my hair transplant office with all sorts of minoxidil compounded solutions other than the standard 2 % and 5% concentrations that are FDA approved. Some ordered online, some from their home countries.  You name it, and I've seen it!

 

But is it safe?

It's true a small number of patients swear by it. That going form 5 % to 10 % really helped a lot. But the reality is that increasing the concentration significantly increased the chance of side effects. These include:

1. headaches

2. dizziness and blood pressure instability

3. heart palpitations

4. swelling in the face

5. pins and needles

6. hair growth in unwanted places

FDA: Cracking down on higher minoxidil concentrations

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is now cracking down on companies selling the higher concentrations of minoxidil - out of simple recognition that they are not safe for some people. 

All in all,  for those considering minoxidil,  sticking with 5 % minoxidil concentration is not only  the safest option at present, but also the best option at present.