This page contains brief details about the drug , it's indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

Minoxidil is an antihypertensive vasodilator drug approved for its medical use in 1988

Mechanism of Action of undefined

Minoxidil reduces peripheral vascular resistance to lower high systolic and diastolic blood pressure. It works by enlarging and relaxing certain small blood vessels so that the blood flows through the vessels more easily. The active metabolite of Minoxidil opens the potassium (K+ATP) channel, causing K+ efflux, hyperpolarization, and smooth muscle relaxation.

Uses of undefined

It helps to treat severe hypertension and hair loss.

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

The recommended starting dosage of Minoxidil is 5 mg, given as a single daily dose. This dose can be increased to 10,20, and then 40 mg in a single or divided dose. Take this Minoxidil tablet as prescribed by a doctor. Do not chew or crush the tablets; instead, swallow them whole

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

Warnings

Inform your doctor if you have a history of pheochromocytoma (adrenal gland tumor), congestive heart failure, lung diseases, and liver and kidney diseases. If you experience hypersensitivity (allergic reactions) to Minoxidil and its ingredients, report to your doctor immediately. Inform your healthcare practitioner if you are diagnosed with severe renal failure or dialysis. Regularly monitor salt and fluid retention and body weight. Avoid drinking alcohol since it may cause dizziness.

Precautions

Consult your doctor before using Minoxidil if you are pregnant or plan to have a baby. Although there are limited human studies, animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing fetus. Before prescribing them, your doctor will weigh the benefits and potential hazards. Avoid breastfeeding your baby while on treatment with Minoxidil, as it passes into the breastmilk and harms the baby.

Side Effects

The side effects known to occur commonly during the treatment with Minoxidil are tachycardia (increased heart rate),  increased hair growth, changes in hair color, abnormal electrocardiogram (ECG), edema, and fluid retention. Report your doctor right away if you experience chest pain, weight gain, ankle or face swelling, or if you feel lightheaded or dizzy when standing up.

Word Of Advice

Minoxidil should not be given to children below 12 years. Limit sodium chloride intake in daily diet. Exercise regularly and eat a well-balanced diet. Regular blood pressure checking is recommended during treatment with this medication, and keep checking heart function by using ECG (Electrocardiogram). Driving or using machinery should be avoided if you experience dizziness or faintness.

Frequently Asked Question

References

  1. Goodman & Gilman’s, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Treatment of myocardial ischemia and hypertension, 12th edition, 2011, 781 - 782.
  2. KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Antihypertensive drugs, 7th edition, 2013, 567.
  3. Pfizer limited, Electronic medicines compendium (emc), [Revised on June 2020] [ Accessed on 8th Sep 2022], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.4295.pdf
  4. Pfizer, US Food and Drug Administration, [Revised on Jan 2015] [ Accessed on 8th Sep 2022], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2015/018154s026lbl.pdf

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice; it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.