Topical Minoxidil as a Cause of Lung Disease

Another Case of Minoxidil Induced Lung Disease

The side effects of minoxidil do not typically include anything to do with the lungs. Typical side effects of topical minoxidil include shedding, irritation, palpitations, hypertrichosis. Rare side effects include chest pain, facial swelling, parasethesias. Oral minoxidil side effects include fluid retention in the feet and rarely the body as well as hypertrichosis, dizziness, palpitations and headaches.

Earlier this year, we reviewed an interesting study of hypersensitivity pneumonitis from oral minoxidil. I have included a link to that study here:

Ishiguro et al. 2023

Authors of a new study report a patient with drug induced lung disease from topical minoxidil. The patient’s lung function and chest x ray was observed to worsen with minoxidil use and then improved when minoxidil was stopped. Thoracoscopic lung biopsy samples showed interstitial pneumonia and granulomas.

This is an interesting report which reminds us of the need for open mindedness when considering side effects of our hair loss drugs. Minoxidil is a generally safe medication with infrequent side effects. However, side effects can occur.

REFERENCE

Ishiguro T et al. Drug-induced lung disease due to topical minoxidil. Respir Med Case Rep. 2023; 46: 101940.