Could minoxidil be causing the corners of my mouth to twitch/buckle when I smile?

Question

Since I’ve started using minoxidil on my face for beard growth 8 weeks ago (which is working) I’ve noticed twitching/ buckling of the corners of my mouth when I try to smile. This is bothering me a lot and the more I think about it the worse it gets. Any thoughts? Could minoxidil cause this adverse affect

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

Minoxidil has an extraordinarily safe profile.  There are however rare case reports of some neurological issues due perhaps to the potassium channel effects.  Consider ceasing medication to see if symptoms improve.  If not visit a neurologist.

Jeff Rapaport, MD · Answer

There there have been rare reported cases of neurological symptoms from minoxidil. The incidence is approximately 1 in 5000. Twitching from emotional stress is more likely. I would suggest visiting a neurologist.

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

I would need to know more and examine the area to really determine if it’s related or not. It is possible, yes.A few years ago Dermatologists from India described a new side effect from minoxidil - specifically a vibration-like sensation/tremor over the lips and around the lips. Given the similar to a rabbit, the findings have been previously referred to as  "Rabbit syndrome."
Interestingly, when the patients reduced the minoxidil to a lower dose of the standard concentration, the side effects ceased. I would need to need know more about your story to see if it fits the defintion of what has been described. I advise my patients with similar type stories to take a video when it happens and share it at their appointments.
Overall, it’s a rare phenomenon and one needs to keep in mind this may or may not be related to minoxidil use. 
REFERENCE
Nagar R. Rabbit syndrome because of topical minoxidil foam. Dermatol Ther 2015.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

You report that you have twitching of the mouth on minoxidil; however the two are most probably unrelated.

Could minoxidil be causing the corners of my mouth to twitch/buckle when I smile?

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Answer: Twitching of the mouth on minoxidil

Answer: Twitching of the mouth on minoxidil

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Could minoxidil be causing the corners of my mouth to twitch/buckle when I smile?

Answers (4)

Answer: Twitching of the mouth on minoxidil

Answer: Twitching of the mouth on minoxidil

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