Oral minoxidil treats hair loss, specifically androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness). It works as a vasodilator, widening blood vessels and enhancing blood flow to scalp hair follicles. This improved circulation delivers more oxygen and nutrients, which can prolong the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle and potentially increase the size of miniaturized hair follicles. This encourages existing hair to grow longer and thicker, while also promoting new hair growth.
Reversal of Hair Growth
Hair growth benefits from oral minoxidil require continuous use. Its impact on blood flow, follicle size, and the hair growth cycle ceases upon discontinuation. This leads to a gradual reversal of hair growth.
Hair loss typically resumes to pre-treatment levels within three to six months after stopping oral minoxidil. This return of hair loss is not sudden but rather a gradual process. Individuals may observe increased shedding and a reduction in hair density during this period. Some studies suggest that hair counts might even temporarily fall below baseline levels before eventually returning to where they would have been without treatment.
Resolution of Side Effects
Systemic side effects from oral minoxidil gradually diminish once the medication is stopped. Since oral minoxidil works throughout the body, its side effects are not confined to the scalp. Common side effects that resolve include hypertrichosis (increased body hair growth on the face or arms) and fluid retention (swelling around the eyes or in the legs).
Cardiovascular changes, such as palpitations or lightheadedness, also subside. The timeframe for resolution varies, but improvement is generally seen within weeks to a few months. The drug itself has a relatively short half-life, meaning it is mostly eliminated from the body within about 24 hours.
What to Expect After Stopping
Discontinuing oral minoxidil leads to a predictable return to the body’s baseline state. Both the resumption of hair loss and the resolution of any side effects are gradual processes, requiring patience. Individuals may notice increased hair shedding and a decrease in hair density as early as two to eight weeks after stopping.
The most significant changes in hair density are commonly observed between three and six months post-discontinuation. Individual responses and timelines can vary, but hair will revert to its previous growth patterns. Consulting a healthcare provider is advisable when considering stopping oral minoxidil to discuss expectations and explore alternative strategies for managing hair loss.