minoxidil

noun

mi·​nox·​i·​dil mə-ˈnäk-sə-ˌdil How to pronounce minoxidil (audio)
: 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Other users also offered up tips, with suggestions to use Kérastase genesis line, topical minoxidil, Nutrafol, and a combination of rosemary oil, jojoba oil and castor oil. Charna Flam, People.com, 2 May 2025 Fortunately, there are a slew of available, effective treatments for these kinds of hair issues, including topical minoxidil and microneedling, both of which stimulate the hair follicles to promote hair growth. Taylor Lane, Flow Space, 10 Apr. 2025 Over-the-counter treatments like minoxidil (Rogaine) may be suggested to stimulate regrowth. Mohammed Soliman, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Apr. 2025 Hair loss has long been framed as a male concern—cue the receding hairline jokes, drugstore minoxidil, and late-night infomercials. Caroline Tell, Forbes.com, 24 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for minoxidil

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1970, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of minoxidil was in 1970

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Cite this Entry

“Minoxidil.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/minoxidil. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

Medical Definition

minoxidil

noun
min·​ox·​i·​dil min-ˈäk-sə-ˌdil How to pronounce minoxidil (audio)
: 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

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