Products / Prescription medication
Minoxidil topical solution
Topical minoxidil applied directly to the scalp twice daily. The 2.5% solution is the typical starting strength for women, 5% for men.
From £49 / month as part of WMG Hair Loss EssentialsAbout this product
Minoxidil applied topically remains the first-line topical treatment for both male and female pattern hair loss, with the strongest evidence base of any topical agent. Higher strengths give greater follicular response in some patients but at the cost of more frequent local irritation. The 7.5% compounded preparation is an off-label option reserved for patients who have plateaued on the 5% formulation and is reviewed quarterly. Apply to a dry scalp twice daily where possible, allow 4 hours before washing, and expect a transient increase in shedding in the first 4 to 8 weeks (the "minoxidil shed") before regrowth.
How it works
Topical minoxidil is converted in the scalp to its active form (minoxidil sulphate), which opens potassium channels in dermal papilla cells, prolongs the anagen phase of the hair follicle, and increases follicular size. Effect is local to the area where the solution is applied.
Who this product is for
- You have androgenetic alopecia and want to start with a topical option
- You prefer not to take oral medication
- You have responded to 5% but want to step up under clinical supervision (7.5% only)
- You are using minoxidil pre and post hair transplant to protect grafts and native hair
Important information
This is a prescription-only medication. WMG Meds is an online assessment service operating under Westminster Medical Group (CQC-registered, Harley Street). Prescriptions are issued by a GMC-registered doctor after asynchronous review of your questionnaire and declared medical history. Suitability, dose and strength are decided by your clinician on a case-by-case basis. We are not a pharmacy and do not dispense in-clinic: your prescription is fulfilled and delivered by our partner pharmacy.
Prescribed under: Dr Sebastian Deme (Medical Director, GMC 7130749) or Dr Grahame Shaw (GMC 7460905), both on the GMC Register and clinically responsible for prescribing decisions on this product. Meet the team.
If you experience side effects or have any clinical concerns, contact us via the enquiry form or call 020 3239 3378. For urgent symptoms please contact your GP, NHS 111, or 999.
Safety information and regulatory updates
Please read the following before starting Minoxidil topical solution. Your clinician will discuss any concerns at clinical review and you can stop treatment at any time.
MHRA Drug Safety Updates and contraindications
- Compounded unlicensed special. Off-licence status disclosed at prescribing.
- Initial increased shedding (the minoxidil shed) typically begins 2 to 6 weeks after starting and settles within a couple of weeks as new hairs replace shed ones (Regaine 5% SmPC).
- Local side effects: scalp irritation, dryness, contact reactions (often related to the propylene glycol vehicle).
Patient Information Leaflet
The official UK Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) on the eMC, the MHRA-affiliated electronic Medicines Compendium.
Yellow Card scheme
Report any suspected side effects of Minoxidil topical solution to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme. Reporting helps the MHRA monitor medicines safety in the UK.
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