Hair guideHair-Loss GlossaryOral minoxidil (low-dose)

Oral minoxidil (low-dose)

Last updated: 2026-06-14

Low-dose minoxidil tablets (e.g. 0.25-5 mg) prescribed off-label for hair loss. They avoid the mess of the topical and suit people who dislike applying it, with growing evidence of benefit. A doctor must screen for heart issues and monitor side-effects like fluid retention and body-hair growth.

Related terms

← Hair-Loss Glossary

Try the free self-check →

Sources: AAD ↗

Explore more

Not medical advice. General education only; it does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a licensed professional. Consult a board-certified dermatologist before starting, stopping or changing any treatment.

⚠️ When to see a doctor — don’t self-treat

  • Sudden patchy or circular bald spots
  • Redness, scaling, pus, pain or itch (possible scarring alopecia — treat urgently)
  • Broken hairs or rapid loss
  • Loss with body-wide signs (weight loss, fatigue, cycle changes, acne, extra hair)
  • Loss right after a new medication
  • Any hair loss in a child
Try the free self-check →
Try the free self-check →