Hair Support

Minoxidil

Topical or low-dose oral support for hair regrowth, for men and women.

Prescription onlyProvider supervisedCare team managed

Begin Your Journey See How It Works

Form Topical solution or foam, or low-dose oral tablet

Dosing Topical twice daily, or oral once daily as prescribed

Onset Visible results typically take 3 to 6 months

Monitoring Blood pressure and heart rate reviewed for oral use

Overview

What Minoxidil is

Minoxidil widens blood vessels around the follicle and extends the growth phase of the hair cycle. Topical minoxidil is well established for pattern hair loss in both men and women. Low-dose oral minoxidil is used off-label by many dermatologists when topical use is impractical or not enough. Your provider decides which form fits you and reviews your blood pressure history first.

Who it may be appropriate for

Men and women with thinning at the crown or overall
People who want an option that does not affect hormones
People who want to pair it with finasteride or a hormone protocol

Who it is not for

People who are pregnant or breastfeeding
Anyone with low blood pressure, certain heart conditions, or fluid retention without provider review, especially for oral use
Anyone unwilling to apply topical minoxidil consistently

What to expect

Your protocol, over time

1

Weeks 2 to 8

Some shedding is common as old hairs make way for new growth. This is temporary.
2

Months 3 to 6

New growth becomes visible. Fine hairs thicken over time.
3

Ongoing

Results are maintained only with continued use. Your care team reviews progress photos at each renewal.

Monitoring

What your care team watches

Every protocol is built on labs and reviewed by a licensed provider. Your care team tracks these markers and flags anything that needs attention before you have to ask.

Blood pressure and heart rate for oral use Progress photos every 3 months

Important safety information

Read this before you begin

Topical use can cause scalp irritation, dryness, or unwanted facial hair if the product spreads.
Oral minoxidil can cause fluid retention, swelling in the ankles, faster heart rate, dizziness, and hair growth on the face or body.
Oral minoxidil lowers blood pressure. Report chest pain, rapid heartbeat, or fainting immediately.
Do not use on broken or irritated skin.
Keep away from pets. Minoxidil is toxic to cats and dogs.

This is not a complete list of side effects, warnings, or interactions. Your provider will review your full history before prescribing and will provide complete medication information with your prescription. If you experience a medical emergency, call 911.

Questions

Frequently asked

Topical or oral?

Topical is the standard starting point. Oral is considered when topical is not tolerated or not enough. Your provider decides based on your health history.

Does it work for women?

Yes. Minoxidil is one of the most commonly used options for female pattern hair loss.

Why did shedding get worse at first?

Minoxidil pushes resting follicles into a new growth cycle, which releases the old hair first. It settles within a couple of months.

Membership provides access to Fortem's clinical care platform and provider network. All medical decisions are made by licensed providers. Fortem Health does not practice medicine or sell medication. Results vary by individual. This platform is not a substitute for emergency medical care. Medication availability depends on state licensing and clinical appropriateness.