What are Minoxidil 2.5 mg Tablets?

Minoxidil 2.5 mg tablet is an oral medicine classified as a vasodilator, meaning it works by dilating and relaxing blood vessels. It was primarily developed for the treatment of high blood pressure, but a known side effect is the promotion of hair growth. This off-label use of minoxidil has been observed in cases of androgenetic alopecia (male and female pattern baldness).

What are Minoxidil 2.5 mg Tablets Used For?

Androgenetic alopecia: Used off-label to promote hair growth in individuals experiencing pattern baldness.
Other hair disorders: May be considered in certain cases of hair loss not related to androgenetic alopecia, under medical supervision.

How Does Minoxidil 2.5 mg Tablet Work?

Oral minoxidil widens small blood vessels, improving circulation to hair follicles. This increased blood flow rejuvenates hair follicles, encouraging new hair growth and improving hair density.

Why Does Hair Loss Happen?

Hair loss is often caused by dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that restricts blood flow to hair follicles. While treatments like finasteride work by reducing DHT levels, oral minoxidil works differently by improving blood flow, helping to counteract DHT-related damage.

Initial Shedding Phase - It is normal to experience temporary shedding when starting minoxidil. This occurs because weaker hairs fall out to make way for stronger, thicker strands.

Oral vs Topical Minoxidil

Both oral and topical forms contain the same active ingredient but differ in how they are administered and absorbed.

Topical minoxidil is applied directly to the scalp, allowing targeted treatment of affected areas. Some users, however, find it messy or difficult to incorporate into their daily routine.
Oral minoxidil, taken as a tablet, provides a systemic approach and may be more convenient. It may also be more effective in certain cases, especially where topical solutions have failed or are not tolerated. However, oral minoxidil carries a higher risk of systemic side effects such as fluid retention, dizziness, or changes in blood pressure.
Because of this, 123Meds recommends trialling a topical minoxidil preparation first, before considering an oral formulation.

Clinical Advice from 123Meds

At 123Meds, your safety is our priority. A clinical assessment is required before oral minoxidil can be prescribed. Our healthcare professionals will evaluate your medical history and suitability to ensure the chosen option is safe, effective, and tailored to your needs.

Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any hair loss treatment, and inform them of any underlying health conditions or medications you are taking.

When to Consider Minoxidil 2.5 mg Tablet for Hair Loss

Considering Minoxidil 2.5 mg tablets for hair loss should involve a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional. This medication may be suitable for individuals who have not responded to topical treatments or other therapies. It is particularly considered in cases of androgenetic alopecia but may be used in other hair loss conditions under medical guidance.

Who Should Take Minoxidil 2.5 mg Tablets?

Individuals with pattern baldness who have not seen improvement with topical treatments.
Patients unresponsive to topical minoxidil.
Those seeking a more convenient treatment compared to topical applications.

Who Should Not Take Minoxidil 2.5 mg Tablets?

Individuals with cardiovascular conditions, unless prescribed by a specialist.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women, due to potential risks.
Individuals with hypersensitivity to minoxidil or its ingredients.
Children or those under 18 years old.
A comprehensive medical evaluation is essential before starting Minoxidil 2.5 mg tablets.

Can You Buy Minoxidil 2.5 mg Tablets Over the Counter?

Minoxidil 2.5 mg tablets are not available over the counter in the UK. They require a prescription because the medicine was originally developed for hypertension and is used off-label for hair loss. Using it without medical supervision can lead to unwanted side effects or complications.

Your doctor or pharmacist will evaluate your condition, explain the risks and benefits, and prescribe the appropriate dosage.

Alternative Medications for Hair Loss

Finasteride
Topical minoxidil
Dutasteride

How to Take Minoxidil 2.5 mg Tablets

Taking Minoxidil 2.5 mg tablets exactly as directed by a healthcare provider ensures maximum benefits while minimising risks.

Initial dose: 1.25 mg (half a tablet) daily for two weeks, increasing to 2.5mg (one tablet) if tolerated without any side effects

Maintenance dose: Increase to 2.5 mg daily.

Timing: Take at the same time each day for optimal results.

Long-term use: Consistency is key—stopping treatment may reverse regrowth.

Dosage

With or Without Food

Minoxidil can be taken with or without food. Take with a glass of water for easy swallowing.

Consistency

Take at the same time each day. If you miss a dose, skip it and continue with your next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose.

Precautions

Do not crush or chew the tablets.

Tell your doctor about any other medications or supplements you take to avoid interactions.

Duration of Use

Visible results may take 3–6 months. Regular follow-ups with your doctor are important to monitor progress.

Ingredients

Active Ingredient

Minoxidil 2.5 mg – Improves blood circulation to hair follicles, stimulating growth.

Inactive Ingredients

Lactose – Binder and filler.
Microcrystalline cellulose – Binder for tablet formation.
Magnesium stearate – Lubricant for tablet production.
Polyethylene glycol – Helps the tablet dissolve once ingested.

Note: Inactive ingredients may vary depending on the manufacturer. Always check the product label for details.

Side Effects of Minoxidil 2.5 mg Tablets

Like all medications, oral minoxidil can cause side effects in some individuals.

Common side effects include:

Increased heart rate (tachycardia)
Inflammation of the heart (pericarditis)
Abnormal ECG results
Increased hair growth in unintended areas (hypertrichosis)
Fluid retention (oedema)

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

Feeling faint or dizzy, especially when standing up
Noticeable fluid retention (e.g., swollen ankles, sudden weight gain)
Worsening breathlessness, fatigue, or wheezing
New or worsening chest pain (angina)

Stop taking the medication and consult your doctor if you develop:

Shortness of breath
Discomfort when lying down
Chest pain or pressure
A feeling of chest fullness
Light-headedness or fainting
Swelling of the legs, ankles, or abdomen

Important: This is not an exhaustive list. For full details of side effects, precautions, and safety information, refer to the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) supplied with your medication.