Description and Notes

Headway is the generic version of the Upjohn 5%. It is an alternative minoxidil brand. Minoxidil is now the most publicised treatment available for male pattern baldness and was the first treatment approved by the FDA for androgenetic alopecia and studies have shown that solutions of minoxidil are effective in initiating and promoting hair growth in individuals with male pattern alopecia.

Mode of Action

The mechanism by which minoxidil promotes hair growth is not completely understood however evidence suggested that minoxidil promotes hair growth by increasing matrix cell proliferation and by prolonging the alagen phase. Higher concentrations appear to be more effective in promoting hair growth.

Application

The recommended dosage is 1 ml applied twice daily to thinning areas of the scalp. The use of topical tretinoin in conjunction with minoxidil appears to increase the beneficial effects of minoxidil.