Minoxidil sulphate
[CAS# 83701-22-8]

Identification

• Classification: API >> Circulatory system medication
• Name: Minoxidil sulphate
• Synonyms: 6-(1-Piperidinyl)-2,4-pyrimidinediamine-3-oxide sulfate
• Molecular Formula: C₉H₁₅N₅O₄S
• Molecular Weight: 289.31
• CAS Registry Number: 83701-22-8
• EC Number: 635-997-7
• SMILES: c1c([n+](c(nc1N2CCCCC2)N)OS(=O)(=O)[O-])N

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Safety Statements: P261-P264-P270-P271-P280-P301+P312-P302+P352-P304+P340-P305+P351+P338-P330-P332+P313-P337+P313-P362-P403+P233-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335

Discovery and Applications

Minoxidil sulfate is a potent derivative of minoxidil that plays an important role in promoting hair growth and controlling severe hypertension. This compound has become a cornerstone of dermatology and cardiology for its effective applications in hair regrowth and blood pressure control.

Minoxidil was originally synthesized by the pharmaceutical company Upjohn (now part of Pfizer) in the late 1960s and was developed as an oral antihypertensive. Researchers discovered that it was able to open potassium channels, leading to vasodilation and lowering of blood pressure. However, during clinical trials, an unexpected side effect of increased hair growth was observed, leading to further research in the field of dermatology.

Minoxidil itself is inactive until it is converted to its active form, minoxidil sulfate, by sulfotransferases in the scalp. Minoxidil sulfate stimulates hair follicles by opening ATP-sensitive potassium channels on the cell membrane, an action that improves blood flow and nutrient delivery to the follicles, extending the hair growth cycle.

Minoxidil sulfate is primarily used as a topical solution to treat androgenetic alopecia, a common form of hair loss in both men and women. Applied directly to the scalp, it rejuvenates atrophied hair follicles and promotes hair regrowth, resulting in thicker, fuller hair. It is effective for both men and women, but requires continued use to maintain its effects.

Before its widespread use to treat skin conditions, minoxidil (and minoxidil sulfate) was primarily used as a powerful vasodilator to treat severe hypertension. By relaxing the smooth muscle of blood vessels, it can lower blood pressure when other treatments have failed. However, due to its potent nature, it is generally reserved for patients who do not respond to standard antihypertensive medications.

Minoxidil sulfate's ability to promote hair growth has revolutionized the treatment of androgenetic alopecia. It is available in a variety of formulations, including 2% and 5% topical solutions, and is well tolerated by most patients. The non-invasive nature of topical application makes it a convenient hair regrowth option that eliminates the need for systemic medications.

Despite its efficacy, minoxidil sulfate has limitations. The full effect on hair regrowth may take several months to become apparent, and stopping treatment can result in loss of newly grown hair. Side effects are generally mild and include scalp irritation. As with the treatment of hypertension, its use requires careful monitoring due to the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects.

References

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