Oral Minoxidil is the capsule form of the popular hair growth stimulant. Genetic conditions like male pattern baldness shrink the hair follicles on your scalp and this eventually leads to hair loss. Minoxidil works by increasing the flow of oxygen-rich blood and nutrients to your hair follicles, so each hair spends longer in its growth phase and becomes stronger and thicker as a result. Minoxidil is converted into its active form by the sulfotransferase enzyme found in the scalp and liver - but not all men have this in their scalps. Oral Minoxidil is 30% more effective than the topical version because it is directly absorbed into the bloodstream, so it is activated in everyone regardless of whether the enzyme is present in their scalp.

Side effects are usually rare, mild and reversible. Possible side effects include excessive hair growth (hypertrichosis) in other parts of the body, fluid retention, and low blood pressure. It’s normal for your old hair to fall out within the first 2 months - this is a good sign! It means that the medication is working and your hair is starting a new growth cycle.

Take one tablet daily, with or without food. If you miss one, don’t worry, carry on as normal.

Oral Minoxidil was initially invented as a blood pressure tablet, however, doctors noticed that patients who took it experienced new hair growth. Since then, it has been used off-label for hair loss. Based on numerous studies, expert accounts and our own experience, we know that Oral Minoxidil is highly effective in the treatment of hair loss, although it is not yet licensed for this purpose in the UK. For this reason, you can only receive it via a prescription from a qualified clinician who has assessed the potential benefits and risks. Many medications are used outside their licence or are unlicensed in the UK, especially in dermatological hair-loss practice. It is important you take the medication as directed, read all the supplied information, and inform us of any changes to your medical history.

Sometimes, the licensed medicines on the market aren’t quite right for a patient or group of patients. In that case, a prescriber can request a medicine be prepared to meet, or better meet, the patient’s needs. Although the medication’s new application may be supported by studies and expert groups, its licence is still not in place. Each clinician will review your online consultation and prescribe a hair loss treatment only if it is clinically appropriate, based on your individual circumstances and if the licensed treatments are not suitable.