Topical Minoxidil Overdose in a Young Man With Androgenetic Alopecia: A Case Report

Cureus. 2024 Jun 14;16(6):e62382. doi: 10.7759/cureus.62382. eCollection 2024 Jun.

Abstract

Minoxidil is an effective and relatively safe topical drug that is used to treat androgenetic alopecia and other types of alopecia. This active ingredient is used in dermatology as a hair growth stimulant; however, the use of solutions containing minoxidil can be accompanied by a variety of cardiovascular systemic side effects. In this case report, we describe the case of a 23-year-old man who presented with complaints of dizziness, blurred vision, general malaise, fatigue, and feeling pre-syncopal while standing after applying large amounts of topical minoxidil solution for three days in a row. Other potential causes of the presenting condition were excluded. The symptoms quickly resolved after the discontinuation of minoxidil. No other treatment was used apart from minoxidil withdrawal.

Keywords: 2% topical minoxidil; androgenetic alopecia; cardiovascular side effects; drug-induced hypotension; minoxidil intoxication; rare side effect.

Publication types

  • Case Reports