Minoxidil spray
Hello, due to severe hair loss, my dermatologist has recommended using a topical minoxidil spray once daily.
I have been taking the oral contraceptive pill (Kylian) for a year now, and I would like to know if minoxidil will affect the efficacy of the oral contraceptive.
Thank you for your time in responding.
Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/04/30
Dr. Zheng Shuwen reply Pharmacology
Hello, regarding your question, here is the response: The medication you are using is a topical spray; topical sprays have limited systemic absorption and generally do not affect the oral contraceptives you are currently taking.
Please remember to carefully read the medication label and be aware of your body's reactions during the treatment.
If you experience any discomfort or have further questions, feel free to consult your physician or pharmacist.
Wishing you all the best.
Taoyuan Rehabilitation Hospital is here for you.
Consultation phone number: 03-3698553.
Working hours: Monday to Tuesday: 08:30 AM - 10:00 PM, Wednesday to Friday: 08:30 AM - 06:00 PM, Saturday: 08:30 AM - 02:00 PM.
Reply Date: 2021/04/30
More Info
Minoxidil is a topical medication commonly used to treat hair loss, particularly androgenetic alopecia. It works by stimulating hair follicles and increasing blood flow to the scalp, which can promote hair growth. On the other hand, birth control pills, such as the one you mentioned (祈麗安), are hormonal contraceptives designed to prevent ovulation and regulate menstrual cycles.
To address your question directly: Minoxidil, when used as a topical spray, is unlikely to affect the efficacy of birth control pills. The primary reason for this is that topical medications like Minoxidil are designed to be absorbed locally at the site of application (in this case, the scalp) and have minimal systemic absorption. This means that the amount of Minoxidil that enters the bloodstream is very low, which significantly reduces the likelihood of it interacting with other medications, including hormonal contraceptives.
Birth control pills work by delivering hormones (typically a combination of estrogen and progestin) into the bloodstream to prevent ovulation. Since Minoxidil does not significantly enter the systemic circulation, it should not interfere with the hormonal mechanisms of birth control pills. Therefore, you can continue using Minoxidil as prescribed by your dermatologist without worrying about it diminishing the effectiveness of your contraceptive method.
However, it is always advisable to monitor your body’s response to any medication. If you experience any unusual side effects or have concerns about your medications, it is best to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and current medications.
In summary, using Minoxidil spray should not impact the effectiveness of your birth control pills. It is essential to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding the use of both medications. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to your dermatologist or gynecologist for more detailed guidance tailored to your specific situation.
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