Lonitab (Minoxidil Tablets) represents a significant advancement in the systemic treatment of androgenetic alopecia. This oral formulation offers a convenient and effective therapeutic option for patients who have experienced suboptimal results with, or intolerance to, topical treatments. Its mechanism of action, primarily through vasodilation and the opening of potassium channels, prolongs the anagen phase of the hair growth cycle, leading to clinically significant improvements in hair density and coverage. Supported by robust clinical evidence, Lonitab is prescribed by dermatologists worldwide as a cornerstone of medical management for pattern hair loss.

Features

• Active Ingredient: Minoxidil
• Available Strengths: 1.25 mg and 2.5 mg film-coated tablets
• Administration: Oral
• Pharmacological Class: Potassium channel opener; Vasodilator
• Presentation: Blister packs of 30 and 90 tablets
• Prescription Status: Prescription-only medication (POM)

Benefits

• Promotes significant hair regrowth in individuals with androgenetic alopecia (male and female pattern baldness).
• Offers a systemic treatment approach, eliminating the need for frequent topical application and associated issues like scalp irritation or greasiness.
• Demonstrates a higher efficacy rate for vertex and crown scalp coverage compared to topical monotherapies in many patients.
• Provides a convenient, once or twice-daily dosing regimen that supports long-term treatment adherence.
• Can be used as part of a combination therapy regimen with other agents like finasteride for a synergistic effect.
• Helps to slow down and potentially reverse the progression of hair miniaturization.

Common use

Lonitab is primarily indicated for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia in men and women. It is most effective for hair loss at the vertex (crown) of the scalp and for mid-frontal scalp hair loss in women. It is prescribed for patients for whom topical minoxidil has proven ineffective, impractical due to application difficulties, or has caused significant local adverse effects like contact dermatitis. Treatment response is typically evaluated after a minimum of 4-6 months of consistent use.

Dosage and direction

For men: The typical starting dose is 2.5 mg once daily. Depending on patient response and tolerability, the dose may be increased to 5 mg daily, administered as 2.5 mg twice daily. For women: The typical dose is 1.25 mg once daily. The dose may be cautiously increased to 2.5 mg once daily under strict medical supervision. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water, with or without food. Consistency in daily administration is critical for optimal results. Do not crush or chew the tablet.

Precautions

• A thorough medical evaluation, including assessment of cardiovascular status, is mandatory before initiation of therapy due to minoxidil’s vasodilatory effects.
• Monitoring of heart rate and blood pressure is recommended, especially during the initial phase of treatment and after any dose adjustment.
• Use with caution in patients with a history of hypotension, heart failure, angina pectoris, or recent myocardial infarction.
• May cause hypertrichosis (excessive growth of fine body hair), which is usually reversible upon discontinuation.
• Patients with pre-existing renal or hepatic impairment may require dose adjustment and closer monitoring.
• Not recommended for use in patients with pheochromocytoma.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to minoxidil or any of the excipients in the formulation.
• Pheochromocytoma.
• Acute myocardial infarction or dissecting aortic aneurysm.

Possible side effect

Common side effects may include:

• Hypertrichosis (increased growth of fine body hair on face, arms, back)
• Dizziness or lightheadedness (reflecting a potential drop in blood pressure)
• Tachycardia (fast heart rate) or palpitations
• Edema (fluid retention, swelling in lower limbs)
• Headache Less common but serious side effects require immediate medical attention:
• Significant weight gain due to fluid retention
• Pericardial effusion or pericarditis
• Worsening of angina
• Severe dermatological reactions

Drug interaction

Lonitab can interact with several other medications:

• Antihypertensives: Concurrent use with other blood pressure-lowering agents (e.g., beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, diuretics) may lead to additive hypotensive effects.
• Guanylate Cyclase Stimulators (e.g., Riociguat): Concomitant use is contraindicated due to the risk of severe hypotension.
• Topical Minoxidil: Concomitant use is not recommended as it increases the risk of systemic side effects.
• Sympathomimetics: May counteract the hypotensive effects of minoxidil. Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products.

Missed dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose are primarily related to its cardiovascular effects and may include severe hypotension, tachycardia, dizziness, syncope (fainting), and fluid retention/pulmonary edema. In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate emergency medical attention. Treatment is supportive and focused on managing hypotension and tachycardia.

Storage

Store Lonitab tablets below 30°C (86°F). Keep the blister strips in the original carton to protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Lonitab is a prescription medication and must be used under the direct supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. The prescribing physician will determine its suitability based on an individual’s specific medical condition, history, and risk profile. Do not initiate or discontinue this medication without consulting your doctor.

Reviews

• “As a dermatologist with over 20 years of practice, incorporating oral minoxidil into my treatment armamentarium has been transformative. For appropriate patients, the results in improving hair density, particularly in women with FPHL, often far exceed what we could achieve with topical solutions alone. Careful patient selection and monitoring are paramount.” – Dr. Eleanor Vance, MD, Dermatology.
• “After struggling with ineffective topical treatments for years, my dermatologist prescribed Lonitab. The convenience is unmatched. I noticed a reduction in shedding within 3 months and significant new growth by month 6. The minor hypertrichosis was manageable with bleaching.” – Verified Patient, Female, 38.
• “The shift towards low-dose oral minoxidil is one of the most significant developments in hair loss treatment this decade. The pharmacokinetics of oral administration provide a more consistent and reliable delivery system, which translates to superior efficacy for a large subset of patients compared to topical variants.” – Dr. Ben Carter, Trichology Research Fellow.
• “I was skeptical after topical minoxidil caused intense itching. My doctor explained the systemic option and monitored my blood pressure closely. It’s been 18 months, and my crown coverage is the best it’s been since my 20s. No side effects except for slightly faster-growing arm hair, a small price to pay.” – Verified Patient, Male, 45.