Minoxidil / Hydrocortisone Solution

Overview

Minoxidil / Hydrocortisone Solution is a combination of drug products that have been formulated into a topical solution to address alopecia (hair loss) caused by an overactive immune system. The active ingredients in this preparation work synergistically to counteract the effects of the autoimmune response and to allow the hair to regrow. The preparation is applied to the affected area twice daily and may take up to four months of therapy to see a response.

Minoxidil

Minoxidil was originally approved by the FDA in 1979 as an oral vasodilator to treat high blood pressure. Interestingly, patients who used minoxidil for an extended period experienced a side benefit of hair growth in places where they had lost it previously. The use of oral minoxidil has since fallen out of favor due to its potency and adverse reactions. Topical minoxidil, however, is widely used today to stimulate the regrowth of hair.¹ When applied directly to the scalp, it works by widening blood vessels to increase blood flow to hair follicles. This may cause follicles in the telogen (resting) phase to shed, which are then replaced by thicker hairs in a new anagen (growth) phase.

Topical minoxidil is generally well tolerated and can be effective by itself if used during the early onset of alopecia. Topical minoxidil is likely successful in promoting moderate hair growth in approximately 30% of men and 60% of women with androgenetic hair loss.² Minoxidil is also known to stop the worsening of alopecia or provide mild hair growth.³ 

Hydrocortisone

Some types of hair loss are caused by an autoimmune response, where the body’s immune system destroys healthy hair follicles. As such, alopecia areata, lichen planopilaris, and discoid lupus erythematosus are treated differently than androgen induced hair loss and may be alleviated with the use of corticosteroids. Corticosteroids block the production of certain chemical messengers (prostaglandins) that make the scalp red, swollen and itchy.

This formulation contains hydrocortisone, a naturally-occurring corticosteroid that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antipruritic effects. Topically, it soothes the skin and prevents irritation, decreases swelling, redness, and itching of the affected skin. However it may not be as beneficial for people with extensive hair loss. Topical hydrocortisone is considered low potency and is the safest for long-term topical use over other corticosteroids.^{4, 5}