Minoxidil (oral): uses, side effects & brands

Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed 5 November 2026

Oral minoxidil is a strong blood-pressure medicine, and in low doses is used for hair loss. It belongs to the Blood-pressure medicine (extra) group. These lower blood pressure by additional mechanisms, often used when first-line drugs are not enough.

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Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor

Measure	Range
Drug class	Blood-pressure medicine (extra)
Type	Prescription
Dose	Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist

What it is used for

Severe or hard-to-control high blood pressure
Given with a water tablet and a heart-rate medicine to limit side effects
Low-dose use for hair loss, off-label, under a doctor's supervision

Common brand names

India: Loniten, Mintop (topical is separate)
Worldwide: Loniten

Common side effects

Extra hair growth on face and body
Fluid retention, ankle swelling and weight gain
Fast heartbeat
Headache or dizziness

Before taking it — precautions

Tell your doctor about angina, a recent heart attack or heart failure
Not used in pregnancy or breastfeeding
Do not start it for hair loss on your own; it is a strong blood-pressure medicine

When to see a doctor urgently

Chest pain (urgent)
Rapid weight gain, swelling or breathlessness (urgent)
Fainting or feeling very faint

Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of minoxidil depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.

Frequently asked questions

Is oral minoxidil safe for hair loss?

Low doses are increasingly used by dermatologists, with checks of blood pressure and swelling. It should only be used under supervision.

How is it different from minoxidil lotion?

Unlike the lotion, tablets act on the whole body, so side effects such as low blood pressure and body hair are more likely.

Will the extra body hair go away?

It usually fades gradually after stopping the medicine.

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Sources & further reading

Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.