When it appeared on the market in 1979, minoxidil (Loniten) was considered by experts to be a major step forward in the treatment of high blood pressure. It was effective in the most severe cases and in patients who had failed to improve when taking other drugs. These benefits, however, were accompanied by a number of serious adverse effects, including the retention of fluids in the body and major heart problems.
While not dangerous, minoxidil’s most interesting side effect, increased body hair growth, was cosmetically off-putting, in particular to women. This problem typically made its appearance within three to six weeks in four out of five patients taking the drug by mouth. Specifically, the body became blanketed with dark hair, starting on the face and progressing to the back, chest, arms, and legs.
Recognizing its commercial potential, Upjohn marketed minoxidil in a solution to be applied to the scalp in 1988. Called Rogaine in North America and Regaine in Europe and Asia, it was the first Food and Drug Administration-approved hair restoration product and is now available without a prescription.
Before running out and buying Rogaine and then immediately making an appointment for a haircut, read on: There are many causes of hair loss (alopecia), including medical conditions, hormonal disorders, stress, medications, cancer chemotherapy, and exposure to workplace chemicals. The most common type, androgenic alopecia, is seen in 95 percent of all instances of hair loss and occurs in genetically predisposed individuals.
Rogaine is only useful for androgenic alopecia. It is most effective in restoring hair on the crown of the head in slowly progressing (and not extensive) male- and female-pattern baldness. Past studies revealed that one-quarter of men experienced at least moderate hair growth, and one-third, only minimal growth. However, only one-fifth of women experienced moderate hair growth or better. Early signs of improvement take four months of treatment. Within several months after the medication is discontinued, new hair is lost.
In short, sadly, the cure for baldness has yet to be developed.
SEE ALSO Food and Drug Administration (1906), Diuril (1958), Captopril (1981), Proscar and Propecia (1992).
Rear view of a balding man. If Rogaine treatment proves successful, it might increase hair growth modestly on the crown of his head after four months of daily use.