Minoxidil

Prior to the introduction of minoxidil, the treatment of common baldness was limited to hair transplants, hair pieces, and cosmetic agents based largely on unsubstantiated claims. Minoxidil is the first FDA-approved topical medication for the treatment of both male and female androgenetic alopecia. The background of minoxidil's development and use in clinical practice is reviewed in this article. The scientific study and common use of topical minoxidil has ushered in a new era of research into hair loss and its treatment.