Ingredient

Minoxidil

Minoxidil is a medication used to lower blood pressure and treat hair loss.

See medicines used for Skin / AllergySee medicines used for Chronic Conditions
All medicines
70
Single ingredient
62
Combination
8
Prescription medication
17
OTC medication
53

MFDS ingredient code M081480

What does it do?

Minoxidil is an ingredient from the class of antihypertensives that works by dilating blood vessels. It is mainly used for treating hypertension and locally to alleviate hair loss symptoms.

Minoxidil relaxes the muscles of blood vessels, facilitating smooth blood flow. As a result, blood pressure decreases, and blood supply to the scalp increases, aiding in hair growth.

Commonly used for

Approved uses differ by product. Check each product's information for its actual use.

Good to know

Minoxidil is characterized by its specialized action in promoting local hair growth in addition to its blood pressure-lowering effects. Unlike other antihypertensives, its use in hair loss treatment distinguishes it.

Medicines containing this ingredient

Even with the same ingredient, strength, dosage form and how it is taken can differ.

Category
Dosage form
Strength
Category

70 total

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Even with the same ingredient, dosage and approved uses can differ by strength, dosage form and combined ingredients. Check each product's information before taking it.

Combined ingredients

Ingredients used together with this ingredient in combination products.

Questions about this ingredient

  • QI am taking blood pressure medication; can I also use a hair loss product with minoxidil?

    Minoxidil also acts as a constituent that dilates blood vessels and lowers blood pressure, so if you are already taking blood pressure medication, it is necessary to verify if it can be used in conjunction. The method of use varies by product, so please check the product information you intend to use and consult your pharmacist or doctor regarding your blood pressure medication.

    Answers 1 · 2026.09.14

  • QWhat is the mechanism by which minoxidil helps hair growth?

    According to the explanatory material, minoxidil relaxes the muscles in blood vessels, improving blood flow. This mechanism increases blood supply to the scalp and is said to assist in hair growth. Effects may vary from person to person.

    Answers 1 · 2026.09.14

  • QWhat does it mean that minoxidil is both a blood pressure medication and a hair loss treatment?

    Minoxidil is a vasodilator belonging to the antihypertensive drug category. It is used orally for the treatment of hypertension, and topically it increases blood supply to the scalp to alleviate hair loss symptoms. Although the active ingredient is the same, the indications and usage may vary between products, so please be sure to check the instructions.

    Answers 1 · 2026.09.14

For anything that needs medical judgment, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

SourceKorea Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (Drug Safety Korea)

This drug information is based on data provided by the Korea Ministry of Food and Drug Safety.
Consult a doctor or pharmacist for accurate dosage, administration, and usage instructions.