Minoxidil / Finasteride / Retinoic Acid Topical Solution — Important Safety Information
Compounded topical minoxidil / finasteride / tretinoin. Scalp irritation, photosensitivity, and possible sexual side effects; strict pregnancy precautions.
This topical solution is compounded by a licensed 503A pharmacy in accordance with Section 503A of the Federal Food, Drug & Cosmetic Act, and may only be dispensed pursuant to a valid, patient-specific prescription issued by a licensed healthcare practitioner following an individualized medical evaluation. The FDA does not review or approve compounded medications for safety, effectiveness, or quality, and this combination formulation has not been FDA-approved. Individual results will vary.
What is in this topical solution?
This is a compounded topical solution that combines minoxidil, finasteride, and retinoic acid (tretinoin) in a single formulation applied to the scalp. While each active ingredient is individually well-studied, this combination is compounded and is not FDA-approved as a combination product.
Who should not use it?
- Women who are or may become pregnant, and anyone who is breastfeeding.
- Anyone with a known allergy to minoxidil, finasteride, or tretinoin.
- People with significant scalp inflammation, broken skin, or certain skin conditions in the treatment area — check with your provider first.
How should I apply it?
Apply once daily to a dry scalp exactly as directed. Wash your hands thoroughly after each use. Allow it to dry fully, and avoid letting the treated scalp come into contact with others — especially women who are or may become pregnant, and children. Do not wash your hair for at least a few hours after applying.
Minoxidil (topical)
- Scalp irritation, itching, dryness, or flaking.
- Unwanted hair growth in areas where the product spreads or transfers (e.g., the forehead or face).
- A temporary increase in shedding during the first weeks.
- Rarely, if too much is absorbed: dizziness, rapid heartbeat, or swelling — stop use and contact your provider.
Finasteride (topical)
- Topical finasteride produces lower blood levels than the oral form, but DHT can still be reduced systemically, and sexual side effects (decreased libido, erectile dysfunction) are possible.
- Pregnancy warning: finasteride can cause abnormalities of the external genitalia of a male fetus. Women who are or may become pregnant must not handle the solution or contact the treated scalp.
Retinoic acid / tretinoin (topical)
- Redness, peeling, dryness, warmth, or stinging at the application site.
- Increased sensitivity to sunlight — limit sun exposure and use sun protection.
- Should not be used during pregnancy.
Most serious side effects
If experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.
- Severe scalp reaction or signs of a serious allergic reaction (swelling, trouble breathing).
- Signs of excessive minoxidil absorption: rapid or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, fainting, sudden swelling, or unexplained rapid weight gain.
Most common side effects
- Scalp redness, itching, flaking, or dryness.
- A temporary increase in shedding early in treatment.
You are encouraged to report negative side effects to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
This information is not comprehensive. Please reach out to your EOS Health-affiliated provider with any questions or concerns.