The Cost Of Minoxidil In Canada: A Guide For New Users

Written by the UPGUYS Editorial Team

Published on May 18, 2022

Last Updated on January 14, 2024

Did you know that male body image dissatisfaction correlates with an increase in anxiety and depression? Hair loss, especially at a young age, can cause reduced self-esteem and body image dissatisfaction. 

Have you wondered about your minoxidil cost and how to find the most affordable minoxidil price in Canada? Paying for minoxidil doesn't have to burn through your wallet.

We have put together a complete guide on everything about minoxidil, including answering the question "Does insurance pay for Minoxidil in Canada," so keep reading for more information!

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Table of contents:

What Is Minoxidil?

Minoxidil is a generic prescription medication that comes in a topical solution or oral tablet. Typically, you apply this liquid onto your scalp twice daily, and it is most often used for men under age 40. 

Originally, minoxidil was widely studied for its role in high blood pressure. The reasoning behind this is that minoxidil acts on blood vessels. When the researchers were studying it, they found it affected blood vessels in the scalp. 

Unlike finasteride, minoxidil is not a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor but rather an antihypertensive vasodilating agent. 

How Does Minoxidil Work?

If you wonder how Minoxidil works, it's good to know that it functions similarly to Rogaine. It helps vasodilate blood vessels and brings more oxygen and nutrients to your scalp.

This helps bring nourishment to your hair follicles and cells. Studies found that minoxidil was effective for 92% of men who used it regularly for one year.

Minoxidil Side Effects

Minoxidil will have similar side effects to Rogaine. The most common minoxidil side effects include:

1. Sensitive scalp
2. Scalp dryness 
3. Skin irritation

Serious side effects may include tachycardia, weight gain, headaches, or lightheadedness. You need to be aware of minoxidil precautions, like not using it with alcohol, and in case you notice some of the above-mentioned problems or signs of an allergic reaction, notify your physician immediately. 

What Types of Minoxidil Are Available? 

Minoxidil is a unique medication available in topical and oral forms. Minoxidil tablets come in four different dosage strengths:

1. 5 mg
2. 10 mg
3. 20 mg
4. 40 mg

You should not increase your dosage without a physician's guidance since it can increase your risk for serious side effects. Many patients find the tablets easier to take than topical solutions. Topical dosages come in a solution or foam.

Minoxidil solutions range from two to five percent. Foam solutions come in five percent dosages. It's important to know how to use minoxidil based on your conditions.

Ultimately, consult your doctor first about how much to use and how often. Medical experts recommend 1 ml to affected scalp areas every 12 hours. You should not exceed 2 ml in 24 hours. 

Foam solutions follow the same protocol unless otherwise specified. It is common that with topical solutions, you may not start noticing effects for up to four months. 

Minoxidil vs Rogaine

Minoxidil and Rogaine are the same drugs under different brands. Rogaine is the brand-name medication, while minoxidil is its generic counterpart. Both contain the active ingredient minoxidil and have similar dosages and mechanisms of action.

The two primary differences are related to cost and inactive ingredients. Generic versions of the medication, such as minoxidil, will cost much less than its counterpart. You may have different inactive ingredients in minoxidil versus Rogaine, which can put you at risk for an allergic reaction. 

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How Much Does Minoxidil Cost?

Minoxidil will cost less than Rogaine since it is a generic medication. On average, generic drugs cost 20% to 70% less than brand-name medications. 

How much does minoxidil cost in Canada? Prices will vary based on pharmacy, insurance coverage, and dosages. You may also find varying prices depending on oral tablets versus topical solutions.

Read more: Minoxidil Before And After

How Much Does Minoxidil Cost in Canada With Insurance?

Does insurance pay for minoxidil? Unfortunately, it depends. Insurance typically covers medication that is medically necessary. 

At UPGUYS, when you purchase a prescription, you will receive a receipt. You can send the receipt to your insurance and see if they will reimburse you. UPGUYS is a certified and licensed pharmacy in British Columbia, Canada, so you can rest easy knowing you are purchasing through a reputable company. 

How To Lower Monthly Minoxidil Cost

First, you are already saving money by purchasing the generic version of Rogaine. You could also talk to your healthcare provider and check out other similar medications. Propecia and its generic counterpart finasteride have similar uses to minoxidil. 

It is slightly cheaper through UPGUYS. There are also options of combining the two medications if your doctor approves. 

Read more: Can You Buy Minoxidil Over The Counter In Canada?

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Order Oral And Topical Minoxidil Online

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Minoxidil and Erectile Dysfunction  

Some questions circulating the internet are regarding minoxidil for erectile dysfunction. Minoxidil is not a prescription with mechanisms of action involving improved blood flow to the penile tissues. If you start noticing side effects that affect libido or increased difficulty getting or maintaining an erection, you should talk to your medical provider about ED medications that can help!