Minoxidil Use in Children

Can minoxidil be used in Children?

Minoxidil is formally approved for adults with genetic hair loss. Minoxidil can be used as an 'off label' indication in children with several types of hair loss including alopecia areata and early onset androgenetic alopecia.  Its use should generally be monitored by a specialist. Children can be sensitive to minoxidil and side effects such as headaches, dizziness, poor concentration, swelling in the feet can occur. Rarely some children develop excess hair on the back or arms. 

 

Minoxidil Dosing

There is no standard dosing schedule for children and much of the dosing recommendations rely on the experience of the physician and the type of hair loss being treated.  Our typical dosing schedule for children who are prescribed minoxidil is shown below. Generally speaking, any child starting minoxidil should be followed by a physician.  These doses may be altered depending on a variety of factors such as the weight of the child, height, previous treatments used and extend of hair loss. These doses are generally regarded as maximal doses.