A new study suggests that finding the popular hair regrowth drug minoxidil in certain pharmacies may be a challenge. Minoxidil, which is taken daily to maintain hair growth progress, can cause setbacks if discontinued. Dr. Adam Friedman, a dermatology professor at George Washington University, explains that stopping minoxidil can result in hair loss recurring. The drug is commonly used for androgenetic alopecia, a form of hair loss that affects a significant percentage of men and women. However, recent research reveals that many pharmacies in the Washington, D.C. area are experiencing shortages of minoxidil. Out of the 277 pharmacies surveyed, only 40% had the necessary 30-day supplies of the drug available. These findings are published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology.
While the cause of the shortages remains unclear, Dr. Friedman speculates that the increased attention on minoxidil via mainstream and social media may have driven up demand and subsequently impacted the drug’s availability. Unfortunately, it is not known how long patients will have to wait for their medication to be restocked.
The potential consequences of the minoxidil shortage are a cause for concern. Dr. Friedman worries that a significant number of patients will have difficulty accessing the drug, posing a significant problem for those dependent on it for hair restoration.
What is Minoxidil and How Does It Work?
Minoxidil was originally developed as a medication to treat high blood pressure due to its ability to dilate blood vessels. However, during clinical trials in the 1960s, doctors discovered a fascinating side effect – excessive hair growth. Although the exact mechanism behind minoxidil’s stimulation of hair growth is still unknown, doctors believe it enhances blood flow around hair follicles.
In the late 1980s, minoxidil was incorporated into topical treatments like Rogaine. Over time, it became evident that its efficacy was more pronounced when taken orally rather than applied topically. Oral minoxidil can stimulate hair growth anywhere on the body, even in unwanted areas like the chin and arms, making it less desirable for many patients, especially women. Nonetheless, Dr. Loren Krueger from Emory University School of Medicine recognizes the transformative potential of oral minoxidil for the treatment and restoration of hair loss. She describes it as a low-risk, high-reward medication.
Addressing Minoxidil Shortages
It appears the challenge of accessing oral minoxidil, although not officially recognized by the FDA as a drug in short supply, might be specific to certain regions rather than a nationwide issue. Michael Ganio, a senior director at the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, suggests that pharmacies may not routinely stock 30-day supplies of minoxidil due to its primary use as a treatment for high blood pressure, which is not considered an emergency situation. Wholesalers should be able to restock the drug within a few days if necessary.
In urgent cases, patients may need to contact multiple pharmacies to find a location that can fill their prescription promptly. Dr. Friedman stresses the impact of hair loss on quality of life and highlights the importance of finding a solution for patients in need.
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