Hair loss affects many men and women in Singapore. While topical minoxidil (Regaine, Growell, Regro) is a popular treatment, there’s growing interest in oral minoxidil—a low-dose, doctor-prescribed pill that’s gaining recognition by Dermatologists as an effective and convenient way of treating hair concerns.
In this article, we cover everything you need to know about oral minoxidil for hair loss, including how it works, when it’s prescribed, side effects, results timeline, pricing in Singapore, and where to get it safely.
What Is Oral Minoxidil?
Originally developed as a blood pressure medication, minoxidil’s unexpected side effect — hair growth — led to the topical versions sold today.
Now, low-dose oral minoxidil is being prescribed off-label by doctors in Singapore to treat:
- Male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia)
- Female pattern hair loss
- General hair thinning
How Does Oral Minoxidil Work Against Hair Loss?
Minoxidil works for hair loss by dilating your small blood vessels (capillaries). This allows more blood to flow through them, bringing greater quantities of oxygen and nutrients to your hair follicles. When they are better nourished, your follicles can stay in the anagen (growth) phase of your hair growth cycle for longer. They can also produce stronger, thicker, and healthier strands that can resist hair miniaturisation.
When Is Oral Minoxidil Given For Hair Loss?
Doctors may recommend oral minoxidil for hair loss when:
- You experience rashes or irritation from topical minoxidil
- Topical minoxidil or finasteride shows poor results
- You dislike how topical minoxidil changes hair texture
- Applying topical minoxidil is inconvenient or inconsistent
- Men have sexual side effects from finasteride
- Women are not suitable for finasteride
How Long Does Oral Minoxidil Take To Work?
Patience is key with hair growth treatments. Most people start to see visible improvements after 3–6 months of consistent use. Shedding in the first few weeks is a sign the medication is working, as it resets your hair growth cycle.
Timeline | What Happens |
|---|---|
0–2 months | Mild hair shedding (normal part of regrowth cycle) |
3–4 months | Reduced shedding, fine new hairs begin to grow |
6+ months | Noticeable thickening and improved density |
Oral Minoxidil Dosage for Hair Loss
Clinical studies support the use of low-dose oral minoxidil for hair loss, ranging from 0.5 - 5 mg daily — much lower than the 10 - 40 mg typically used for hypertension.
Most patients typically start on a low dose to monitor for side effects and adjust as needed.
- Women: 0.25 - 1.25 mg/day
- Men: 2.5 - 5 mg/day
Price/Cost Of Oral Minoxidil In Singapore
At Siena, prices (including GST) as of Dec 2025 are:
- Oral Minoxidil 0.5mg Capsules 100s: $154
- Oral Minoxidil 1mg Capsules 100s: $155
- Oral Minoxidil 2.5mg Tablets 100s: $156
- Oral Minoxidil 5mg Capsules 100s: $303
- Finasteride 0.5mg + Oral Minoxidil 0.5mg Capsules 100s: $252
- Finasteride 0.5mg + Oral Minoxidil 1mg Capsules 100s: $253
- Finasteride 1mg + Oral Minoxidil 0.5mg Capsules 100s: $271
- Finasteride 1mg + Oral Minoxidil 2.5mg Capsules 100s: $273
Potential Side Effects of Oral Minoxidil
Low-dose oral minoxidil is generally well tolerated, but like all medications, side effects may occur in some individuals.
Oral Minoxidil travels through your bloodstream to reach your hair follicles. This means it can have systemic side effects that aren’t confined to your scalp. The most common side effect of is hypertrichosis (excess hair growth elsewhere on the face and body). Excess growth is more likely to occur at higher doses. While this side effect is bothersome, it can usually be managed with hair removal methods and is not a common reason for someone to stop.
Possible side effects
- Increased hair growth in other areas (arms, face)
- Mild swelling in hands, feet, or face
- Temporary shedding (telogen effluvium)
- Dizziness or lightheadedness (from lower blood pressure)
Rare side effects
- Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)
- Fluid retention
- Headache
Long-Term Use and Safety of Minoxidil
Fortunately, low-dose oral minoxidil side effects have been shown to diminish with time and/or a dose adjustment. They will normally resolve completely soon after treatment cessation. There are no reported cases of permanent Minoxidil side effects.
A robust body of research indicates that, for most users, oral Minoxidil is generally safe for prolonged use, with no specific side effects reported. In fact, research shows that long-term treatment compliance is better for oral than topical formulations, as the tablets are more convenient to use and do not normally produce Minoxidil scalp itching or a rash.
Where to Buy Oral Minoxidil in Singapore
In Singapore, oral minoxidil is a prescription medication that must be obtained through a healthcare professional. You must consult a doctor to determine if oral minoxidil suits you.
At Siena, a MOH-licensed telehealth clinic, you can access oral minoxidil safely and discreetly:
- Start with an online hair loss assessment
- Book a video consultation with a Singapore-licensed doctor
- Receive medication delivery to you at no extra cost
Siena ensures every step is confidential, convenient, and professional.
References
- Randolph M, Tosti A. (2021, March). Oral minoxidil treatment for hair loss: A review of efficacy and safety. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaad.2020.06.1009
- Baltazar Sanabria, Tamara de Nardo Vanzela, Hélio Amante Miot, Paulo Müller Ramos. (2021, April). Adverse Effects of Low-dose Oral Minoxidil for Androgenetic Alopecia in 435 patients. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaad.2020.11.035