minoxidil

American

[mi-nok-si-dil] / mɪˈnɒk sɪˌdɪl /

noun

Pharmacology.

a potent peripheral vasodilator, C 23 H 27 N, used in the treatment of severe hypertension, also applied topically to promote hair growth in some types of baldness.

Etymology

Origin of minoxidil

(a)min(o)- + oxy- ² + ( piper)idi(ny)l, a chemical component; see piperidine, -yl

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

minoxidil

Finasteride works by targeting hormones involved in follicle shrinkage, while minoxidil is commonly used on the scalp to encourage growth.

From Science Daily ● Jun. 7, 2026

"I don't know if my body just doesn't assimilate the supplements as well, but minoxidil is definitely more effective long-term," she said.

From Science Daily ● May 7, 2026

The other major drug, minoxidil, is sold over the counter as a foam or liquid requiring twice-daily application—a time-consuming routine for many patients.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 1, 2026

The highest dose prescribed for oral minoxidil for hair loss is 5 milligrams.

From MarketWatch ● Apr. 27, 2026

He researched different medication and started taking finasteride and minoxidil to help treat hair loss - both legal on prescription in the UK.

From BBC ● Mar. 14, 2026

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023