All answers
Answer · hormone optimization
What is minoxidil?
Short answer
Minoxidil is a vasodilator used topically or orally to support hair growth in androgenetic alopecia by extending the anagen growth phase.
Reviewed by Dr. Laura PurdyMay 29, 2026
Full answer
Minoxidil prolongs the anagen (growth) phase of hair follicles and increases follicular size. Topical formulations are FDA-approved; low-dose oral minoxidil has gained adoption when topical use is impractical. Within oMeds review, minoxidil is provider-prescribed and monitored, often combined with finasteride for additive effect. Topical use is generally well tolerated; oral use requires cardiovascular review given systemic vasodilation.
Educational. Not a substitute for individualized provider review.
References & sources
- Hair Restoration pathway — Primary source · oMeds
- Reviewed by Dr. Laura Purdy, MD, MBA · Clinical Director, oMeds · Last reviewed 2026-05-29
Related answers
What is finasteride?
Finasteride is a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor that lowers DHT. It is used for androgenetic alopecia and benign prostatic hyperplasia.
What causes hair loss?
Hair loss has hormonal, nutritional, autoimmune, medication-related, and stress-related causes. Workup typically includes DHT, thyroid status, iron studies, vitamin D, and B12.
Primary source
Hair Restoration pathway