minoxidil

noun

mi·​nox·​i·​dil mə-ˈnäk-sə-ˌdil 

: a peripheral vasodilator C₉H₁₅N₅O used orally to treat hypertension and topically in a propylene glycol solution to promote hair regrowth in male-pattern baldness

Examples of minoxidil in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Old standbys and new treatments Topical minoxidil, also known as Rogaine, is a foam available over-the-counter that lengthens the growth phase of the hair cycle, keeping more hair on the head at any one time. —Sydney Lupkin, NPR, 23 Nov. 2025

Saffran, who wants to stay on Ozempic because of its other benefits, will be lowering her dosage as well as starting minoxidil. —Asuka Koda, CNN Money, 14 Nov. 2025

According to De La Torre, rosemary essential oil is as effective as minoxidil in a study comparing the two interventions used for six months, with rosemary oil having fewer side effects like the scalp itching associated with topical medications. —Essence, 23 Oct. 2025

So while many patients have seen low-risk success with finasteride and the oral minoxidil currently available, there’s clearly room for improvement in both effectiveness and safety in this space. —Marci Robin, Allure, 17 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

perhaps from amino + oxi- (alteration of oxy-) + piperidine + -yl

First Known Use

1970, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

minoxidil

noun

min·​ox·​i·​dil min-ˈäk-sə-ˌdil 

: a peripheral vasodilator C₉H₁₅N₅O used orally to treat hypertension and topically in a propylene glycol solution to promote hair regrowth especially in male-pattern baldness see loniten, rogaine