Side-effects
As a drug to combat hair loss, the most common side effect is itchy scalp. Alcohol present in topical preparations may dry the scalp, resulting in dandruff. Side-effects of minoxidil may include swelling of the face and extremities, rapid and irregular heartbeat, lightheadedness, cardiac lesions, and focal necrosis of the papillary muscle and subendocardial areas of the left ventricle. Ironically, hair loss is a common side-effect of minoxidil treatment. Manufacturers note minoxidil induced hair loss is a common side effect and describe the process as 'shedding'. Although this phenomena demonstrates minoxidil is indeed affecting hair follicles, manufacturers offer no guarantee the new hair loss will be replaced with hair growth.