Minoxidil
Malignant Hypertension, Alopecia
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Arteriolar Vasodilator
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Minoxidil
Learn more about this medicine -
Click HereSummary
Minoxidil is primarily used for treating hair loss and promoting hair growth, commonly in cases of male and female pattern baldness. It is also used as an oral medication to treat severe high blood pressure, especially when other treatments are ineffective.
Minoxidil is a medicine that widens your blood vessels, making it easier for blood to flow. This lowers blood pressure. It also helps blood flow to important organs like your kidneys. In terms of hair growth, you should notice new hair growth or less hair shedding after a few months.
For hair loss treatment, men typically use 1 mL of 5% solution or foam twice daily, while women use 1 mL of 2% solution or 5% foam once daily. For severe high blood pressure, the starting dose is 2.5-5 mg once daily, adjusted by a doctor.
Common side effects include scalp irritation, itching, redness, or dryness, unwanted facial hair growth, especially in women, and dizziness or lightheadedness. Rarely, it can cause rapid heartbeat or chest pain.
Minoxidil should be used cautiously during breastfeeding and avoided during pregnancy. It should not be used by those with scalp infections or open wounds. It can cause dizziness, so avoid driving if you feel lightheaded. Elderly people may be more sensitive to side effects.
Indications and Purpose
What is Minoxidil used for?
Minoxidil is indicated for the treatment of severe hypertension, especially in cases where other medications have failed to control blood pressure. It is used to prevent complications like heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure associated with high blood pressure.
How does Minoxidil work?
Minoxidil acts as a vasodilator, relaxing the smooth muscles in blood vessel walls. This relaxation reduces peripheral vascular resistance, allowing blood to flow more easily and lowering blood pressure. It also triggers compensatory mechanisms like increased heart rate and fluid retention, which are managed with additional medications.
Is Minoxidil effective?
Minoxidil is an effective vasodilator used to treat high blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily. It is typically used when other medications have not been effective, and studies have shown it can significantly reduce blood pressure in resistant cases.
How does one know if Minoxidil is working?
The benefit of Minoxidil is evaluated by regularly monitoring blood pressure and heart rate. Doctors may also order tests like EKGs to assess heart function and ensure the medication is effectively managing hypertension without causing adverse effects.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of Minoxidil?
For adults, the usual starting dose of Minoxidil is 5 mg per day, which can be increased to 10, 20, and then 40 mg daily if needed. The maximum recommended dose is 100 mg per day. For children, the initial dose is 0.2 mg/kg as a single daily dose, with an effective range of 0.25 to 1.0 mg/kg/day. The maximum dose for children is 50 mg daily.
How do I take Minoxidil?
Minoxidil should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once or twice a day. It can be taken with or without food. Your doctor may recommend a low-salt diet to help manage blood pressure, so follow any dietary instructions provided.
For how long do I take Minoxidil?
Minoxidil is typically used as a long-term treatment for high blood pressure. It controls the condition but does not cure it, so it is important to continue taking it even if you feel well, unless advised otherwise by your doctor.
How long does it take for Minoxidil to start working?
Minoxidil typically begins to lower blood pressure within 30 minutes to an hour after taking a dose, with the maximum effect occurring between 2 to 3 hours. The duration of its effect can last up to 75 hours.
How should I store Minoxidil?
Store Minoxidil in its original container, tightly closed, at room temperature away from excess heat and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and dispose of it properly through a take-back program if no longer needed.
Warnings and Precautions
Who should avoid taking Minoxidil?
Minoxidil can cause serious side effects like pericardial effusion and exacerbation of angina. It's contraindicated in patients with pheochromocytoma and those allergic to its components. Patients should be monitored for fluid retention and heart rate changes, and it should be used with caution in those with heart or kidney issues.
Can I take Minoxidil with other prescription drugs?
Minoxidil can interact with other antihypertensive drugs, potentially causing excessive blood pressure reduction. It should be used cautiously with guanethidine due to the risk of severe orthostatic hypotension. Always inform your doctor of all medications you are taking.
Can I take Minoxidil with vitamins or supplements?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Can Minoxidil be taken safely while pregnant?
Minoxidil should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the risk to the fetus. There is limited data on its safety in pregnancy, and it has been associated with fetal resorption in animal studies. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.
Can Minoxidil be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Minoxidil is excreted in breast milk, and its use is not recommended while breastfeeding due to potential adverse effects on the infant. Consult your doctor to discuss alternative treatments if you are nursing.
Is Minoxidil safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the blood pressure-lowering effects of Minoxidil. It's recommended to start with a lower dose and monitor closely for side effects such as dizziness or orthostatic hypotension. Consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Minoxidil?
Minoxidil does not directly limit the ability to exercise. However, it can cause side effects like dizziness or increased heart rate, which might affect physical activity. If you experience these symptoms, consult your doctor before continuing with your exercise routine.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Minoxidil?
Drinking alcohol while taking Minoxidil can worsen its side effects, such as dizziness and drowsiness. It's important to consult your doctor about alcohol consumption while on this medication to ensure safety and effectiveness.
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