Is minoxidil bad for the liver?

There is some evidence to suggest that minoxidil may cause liver damage. This risk may be increased in people who are already taking other medications that can damage the liver, such as alcohol or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

In a study published in the journal JAMA Dermatology, researchers found that people taking minoxidil for hair loss had a significantly higher risk of developing liver damage than those not taking the drug. The study also found that the risk of liver damage increased with the dose of minoxidil and the duration of treatment.

However, it is important to note that this study was observational only. This means that the researchers did not control for other factors that could have contributed to the increased risk of liver damage, such as alcohol use or NSAID use.

Overall, the evidence on the potential liver damage caused by minoxidil is limited and inconclusive. More research is needed to determine whether minoxidil does cause liver damage and to identify the risk factors for this side effect.

If you are considering using minoxidil for hair loss, it is important to talk to your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of the drug. Your doctor can also recommend ways to minimize your risk of liver damage.