Minoxidil (Minoxidil Tablets) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Minoxidil

Drug Side Effects Explained »

Drug Side Effects: Types

Side effects fall into several categories. Allergic reactions can happen with any drug and can range from itching and rash all the way up to a life-threatening anaphylactic reaction.

Other side effects simply Ã¢â‚¬Å“come with the territory.Ã¢â‚¬Â Some drugs can't help but trigger side effects because of their chemical structure. One example is the common allergy drug diphenhydramine (also known by the brand name Benadryl). Though it eases allergy symptoms, it also suppresses the activity of the body chemical acetylcholine, and that leads to drowsiness and a host of other side effects, including dry mouth.

Some drugs have barely noticeable side effects when dosed properly. For example, Warfarin (Jantoven, Coumadin) used to prevent blood clots, is usually well tolerated, but serious internal bleeding can occur.

Side effects may only pop up when certain drugs are mixed with certain other things. These might also be...

Read the Drug Side Effects Explained article »

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Minoxidil User Reviews >>

Minoxidil

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) Slideshow

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Minoxidil Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

MINOXIDIL - ORAL

(min-OX-i-dil)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Loniten

WARNING: Minoxidil may cause serious heart problems or worsen chest pain (angina). Therefore, this medication is only used when other treatments have not worked well or cannot be taken.

Minoxidil has caused very serious heart and lung problems when used on its own. Therefore, your doctor will prescribe other medications to prevent these problems. It is very important to keep using these medications exactly as directed by your doctor during minoxidil treatment. A "water pill" (diuretic) is given to stop the body from holding onto too much water and salt (fluid retention). A beta blocker (e.g., propranolol) or other heart medication is also given to prevent the heart from working too hard. These medications are usually started before your first dose of minoxidil.

Your doctor will follow you closely while you are taking minoxidil. Keep all medical/lab appointments. Tell your doctor if you are taking or have recently taken guanethidine before starting this medication because taking guanethidine along with minoxidil may cause serious problems. Your doctor may want to start minoxidil while you are in the hospital if you are taking guanethidine.

USES: Minoxidil is used to treat high blood pressure. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. Minoxidil is called a vasodilator and works by relaxing blood vessels so blood can flow more easily.

HOW TO USE: This medicine comes with a Patient Information Leaflet. Read it carefully. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist any questions that you may have about this medicine.

Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually once or twice a day or as directed by your doctor.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Your doctor may start you at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. The usual maximum dose for adults is 100 milligrams each day.

Take this medication and all your blood pressure medications regularly in order to get the most benefit. To help you remember, take them at the same time(s) each day. It is important to continue to take your medications even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.

Do not stop taking this medication without first consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.

It may take several days to weeks before the full benefit of this drug takes effect. Tell your doctor if your condition worsens or does not improve (high blood pressure readings).