Which statement about minoxidil adverse effects is correct?

• A. It may cause unwanted hair growth beyond treated areas
• B. It never causes scalp irritation
• C. It always causes systemic hypotension
• D. It has no risk of skin reactions

Answer: (A)

Topical minoxidil can stimulate hair follicles and promote growth not only where it’s applied but also in adjacent or distant areas if the product diffuses or is absorbed systemically. This unintended, increased hair growth—hypertrichosis—is a well-known adverse effect and is the reason this statement is correct. While minoxidil can cause local scalp irritation or dermatitis in some users, it does not never cause irritation; and systemic hypotension is not a guaranteed outcome with topical use (it’s uncommon and more related to significant systemic absorption or alternative routes). It also isn’t true that there’s no risk of skin reactions. So the safest, most accurate adverse effect to recognize is that it may cause unwanted hair growth beyond treated areas.