37. Minoxidil & Hair Loss | The Side Effect That Became the Main Event

Send us Fan MailMinoxidil is one of the most recognised treatments for hair loss in the world. Millions of people use it. Few know how it was discovered.In this episode of Mohivate, I explore the remarkable story of a medication that was never meant to grow hair. What began as a failed ulcer treatment became a powerful blood pressure drug, and an unexpected side effect went on to change dermatology forever.Along the way, we explore the science of hair growth, why hair loss occurs, the difference between telogen effluvium and androgenetic alopecia, and what minoxidil is actually doing inside the hair follicle. We look at the science behind topical and oral minoxidil, why some people respond dramatically while others do not, the role of sulphotransferase enzymes, shedding, side effects, and what current evidence tells us about combination treatments including microneedling and low-dose oral minoxidil.But this episode is about more than hair.Hair loss, like so many things in health, sits at the intersection of biology and identity. It is rarely just about a hairline, a parting, or a reflection in the mirror. It is often about how we see ourselves, how we experience change, and the small things that carry more meaning than we realise.With science, history, humour, and practical evidence, this episode explores one of medicine's most fascinating accidental discoveries, and why it continues to matter to millions of people around the world.References:Minoxidil and Its Use in Hair Disordershttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6691938/Low-Dose Oral Minoxidil for Alopecia: A Comprehensive Reviewhttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10806356/Efficacy and Safety of Oral Minoxidil in Alopecia: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysishttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12188453/Predicting Minoxidil Response Through Follicular Sulfotransferase Activityhttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9326921/Low-Dose Oral Minoxidil Initiation for Patients With Hair Loss: An International Delphi Consensus Statementhttps://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamadermatology/fullarticle/2826573Just a gentle reminder: this episode is for information, education, and inspiration only. It’s not a substitute for your doctor’s advice. For any personal health concerns, always seek guidance from your doctor.