Latanoprost (LatanoSTIM) / Minoxidil – Hair Serum

Available Dosage Strengths

0.06% / 2.2%

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Product Overview

Description

The drugs below have been combined into a topical formulation to treat hair loss.

Minoxidil  Description^1-3

Topical minoxidil is a vasodilatory compound originally developed as an oral antihypertensive agent. It was found to stimulate hair growth (from the observation of hypertrichosis (excessive, abnormal hair growth) in patients taking oral minoxidil) and was subsequently FDA approved for androgenetic alopecia (male and female pattern hair loss).³

Latanoprost Description^4-8

Latanoprost is a prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) analog primarily indicated for the treatment of open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. There is evidence that the drug promotes hair growth, particularly in androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and eyelash/eyebrow hypotrichosis.^4-6 Its role in hair regrowth was first noted due to its adverse effect of increased eyelash growth in glaucoma patients.

Mechanism of Action

Minoxidil^1-3

The drug has many mechanisms in supporting hair growth:

Potassium channel opening: Minoxidil is a K⁺-ATP channel opener, resulting in vasodilation and enhanced blood flow to hair follicles.

Prolongation of the hair cycle: It extends the growth phase of the hair cycle, leading to increased follicle size and more robust hair shafts.

Activation of prostaglandins: May indirectly affect prostaglandin-mediated signaling to stimulate hair follicle activity.

Upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF): Promotes angiogenesis in dermal papillae, improving follicular nourishment.

Latanoprost^4-8

Latanoprost binds to the prostaglandin F2α receptor on hair follicle dermal papilla cells, influencing the hair growth cycle as follows:

Prolongation of Anagen Phase (Growth Phase):

Increases the duration of anagen, which may result in longer and thicker hair shafts.

Stimulation of Melanogenesis:

May enhance pigmentation in vellus hairs, which may make them appear darker and more terminal-like.

Increased Follicular Density:

Some studies suggest latanoprost may increase the number of follicles actively producing hair, particularly in the eyelash and eyebrow regions, and potentially the scalp.

Adverse Reactions

Adverse Reactions ^1-8

Minoxidil

Common

Topical minoxidil is generally well tolerated but may cause local effects:

Local side effects (most common):

Scalp irritation, dryness, flaking

Erythema or contact dermatitis (more common with propylene glycol-containing formulations)

Pruritus or burning sensation

Unwanted facial hair growth (esp. in women or if solution drips onto other areas)

Latanoprost

Common

Local irritation (itching, burning, erythema)
Hyperpigmentation of skin (especially around eyelids or eyebrows)
Increased pigmentation of treated hair
Eyelid darkening (rare with scalp use)
Unwanted hair growth if medication spreads to unintended areas
Eye irritation (if it migrates to eye area)

Contraindications & Precautions

Contraindications & Precautions ^1-8

Minoxidil

Contraindications:

Known hypersensitivity to minoxidil or excipients (e.g., propylene glycol, alcohol)

Discontinuation advised if signs of hypersensitivity or severe irritation occur

Precautions:

Avoid use on broken or inflamed skin to minimize systemic absorption

Not for use in individuals under 18 years unless directed by a physician

Caution in patients with cardiovascular disease (though systemic absorption is typically minimal with proper use)

Avoid ocular contact — rinse thoroughly if accidental exposure occurs

Should not be used during pregnancy or lactation unless clinically indicated and under supervision

Latanoprost

Contraindications:

Known hypersensitivity to latanoprost or prostaglandin analogs
Active ocular conditions if near eyes (without ophthalmologic approval)
History of herpetic keratitis (due to prostaglandin-induced reactivation risk)

Precautions:

Avoid application near the eyes unless specifically prescribed
Use gloves or applicator to prevent unintended hair growth on fingers/hands
Avoid contact with mucous membranes
Patients with a history of uveitis, macular edema, or intraocular surgery should be monitored if periorbital application is required

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat; Room temperature (20°C–25°C / 68°F–77°F) is ideal .

References

Clinical Pharmacology [Internet].: Elsevier; accessed May 2025; Minoxidil topical monograph. Available from: ClinicalKey; https://www.clinicalkey.com/pharmacology/monograph/408?n=Minoxidil
Rogaine® (minoxidil topical solution) package insert. Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc. https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/fda/fdaDrugXsl.cfm?setid=12fd18f0-859c-7b9a-e063-6394a90addbf&type=display Revised March 2024. Accessed June 16, 2025
Goren A, Naccarato T. Minoxidil in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia. Dermatol Ther. 2018 Sep;31(5):e12686.
Johnstone, M. A. (1997). Hypertrichosis and increased pigmentation of eyelashes and adjacent hair in latanoprost therapy. American Journal of Ophthalmology, 120(7), 999–1001.
Blume-Peytavi, U., et al. (2012). Latanoprost stimulates human scalp hair growth in vivo. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 66(5), 807–814.
Kwon, O. S., et al. (2007). Prostaglandin analogs as a potential treatment for hair loss: Latanoprost and bimatoprost in the management of alopecia. International Journal of Dermatology, 46(9), 1044–1048.
Clinical Pharmacology. Elsevier. Latanoprost Monograph. Accessed June 2025
FDA Drug Label: Xalatan (latanoprost ophthalmic solution) https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/fda/fdaDrugXsl.cfm?setid=a98595b3-9f47-48e0-b18d-550a2095f264&type=display Revised May 2023. Accessed June 15, 2025

Disclaimer

This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible drug information about this product. Call your doctor for medical advice and/or about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. A Wells Pharmacy Network pharmacist will be happy to answer any questions. For consultation, please call 1-800-622-4510.