How much Minoxidil goes systemic?

Treatments Minoxidil
1

Hi,

The title. When looking at the scientific literature (e.g. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamadermatology/article-abstract/545803), it seems to range between ~1.5% and ~4%.

The thing is, I don’t understand whether it stays in the scalp or goes into the bloodstream.

I’m asking because I want to give oral Minoxidil a try after a year of 15% topical that did nothing. If the numbers are right, it would mean (?) I got between 2.1mg and 5.85mg everyday with no side effects and I can more or less safely hop on oral.

2

Oral min can be more effective since it ensures systemic exposure, unlike topical versions where a negligible amount gets absorbed. If you’ve had no side effects so far with 15%, switching to oral might be safe for you, but be aware it can be more potent and have different side effects.

3

Thank you for your kind answer.

I still don’t know how much goes systemic, though.