Caution: Invima issues alert about health risks to babies exposed to adults using popular hair loss treatment.

The National Institute for Food and Drug Surveillance (Invima) issued a highly significant health alert that has captured the attention of the Colombian public.

The warning focuses on the use of a popular over-the-counter product for adults, Minoxidil , which could have unexpected and worrying side effects in infants. The drug, widely used to combat hair loss , has been identified as a cause of a condition known as hypertrichosis, or abnormal hair growth, in children , a condition the regulator is actively seeking to prevent.

Health and hair loss experts explain that Minoxidil, whose origins "date back to the 1970s as a vasodilator to treat severe hypertension," was discovered to have a hair growth side effect, which eventually led to its use as a topical treatment for alopecia. However, INVIMA (National Institute of Medical Devices ) maintained that the risk arises when babies come into contact with the product through the skin of their parents or caregivers.

The Invima warning is not intended to alarm, but rather to educate users and healthcare professionals about the potential risks and precautionary measures that should be taken.

To mitigate the risks, INVIMA and other regulatory entities have provided a series of clear recommendations. Adults using topical minoxidil are urged to wash their hands thoroughly after each application. Furthermore, it is recommended to avoid skin-to-skin contact with infants in the areas where the product has been applied. If a child accidentally comes into contact with the medication, it is advisable to immediately wash the affected area with plenty of water.

The alert also extends to the medical field. Pediatricians have been advised to ask the parents if they are using minoxidil when they detect symptoms of hypertrichosis in their patients. This preventive measure is vital for early diagnosis and proper management of the condition.

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