Minoxidil (Minoxidil Tablets) Patient Information: How Should I Take the Drug at RxList

Pill Identifier Search

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 »

« Previous
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
Next »

Minoxidil User Reviews >>

Minoxidil

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) Slideshow

Take the Salt Quiz!

Lowering Blood Pressure Exercise Tips Pictures

font size

Minoxidil Patient Information including How Should I Take

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking minoxidil (Minoxidil)?

Minoxidil tablets should not be used to promote scalp hair growth.

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to minoxidil, or if you have pheochromocytoma (adrenal gland tumor).

Before using minoxidil, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

angina (chest pain);
congestive heart failure;
kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis);
epilepsy or other seizure disorder; or
if you have recently had a heart attack.

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take this medication.

FDA pregnancy category C. Minoxidil may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

Minoxidil can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant. Do not take minoxidil without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take minoxidil (Minoxidil)?

You may need to receive your first few doses of minoxidil in a hospital setting where your heart and blood pressure can be monitored in case the medication causes serious side effects.

Take minoxidil exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts or for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.

To be sure this medication is helping your condition and not causing harmful effects, your weight and blood pressure will need to be checked on a regular basis. You may also need blood tests. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

Minoxidil is usually given together with other medications. To best treat your condition, use all of your medications as directed by your doctor. Be sure to read the medication guide or patient instructions provided with each of your medications. Do not change your doses or medication schedule without advice from your doctor.

Keep using this medicine as directed, even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms, so you may not know when your blood pressure is high. You may need to use blood pressure medication for the rest of your life.

Store minoxidil at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Related Drug Centers