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

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

The product is also an excellent choice for anyone looking for a shampoo for postpartum hair loss; many treatments contain the drug minoxidil, which isn’t safe to use while breastfeeding, but karmatin is a great alternative. —Malia Griggs, Glamour, 19 Feb. 2025

Several years ago multiple medications in both oral and topical applications became popular to block DHT along with the use of minoxidil. —Caroline Tell, Forbes.com, 24 Apr. 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