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
Summary
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
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.
What is Minoxidil?
Minoxidil is primarily used to treat high blood pressure that hasn't responded to other treatments. It works by relaxing blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily, which helps lower blood pressure. This medication is often used in combination with other drugs to manage hypertension effectively.
Directions for Use
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 do I dispose of Minoxidil?
If you can, bring unused medicines to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so they don't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag and throw it away.
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.
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.
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.
Warnings and Precautions
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 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.
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.
Does Minoxidil have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted or harmful effects caused by a medicine. Minoxidil can cause scalp irritation, itching, or dryness, which are common. Rarely, it may cause unwanted facial hair growth or changes in hair color or texture. Serious effects like chest pain or rapid heartbeat are rare but need immediate medical attention. Always report new symptoms to your healthcare provider before stopping the medicine.
Does Minoxidil have any safety warnings?
Minoxidil has safety warnings, including potential scalp irritation and unwanted hair growth on the face or body. It can also cause dizziness or a rapid heartbeat. If you experience chest pain, faintness, or swelling of hands or feet, seek medical attention immediately. Always follow the instructions and consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns.
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.
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 stop Minoxidil?
Minoxidil is used for hair regrowth and requires long-term use for continued benefits. Stopping it may lead to hair loss resuming. There are no withdrawal symptoms, but hair may return to its previous state. It's important to consult a doctor before stopping to discuss alternatives or adjustments.
Is Minoxidil addictive?
Minoxidil is not addictive and has no known potential for dependence. It does not cause physical or psychological addiction. You can use it as directed without worrying about addiction. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions for use.
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.
What are the most common side effects of Minoxidil?
A side effect is an unwanted reaction to a medicine. Common side effects of Minoxidil include scalp irritation, itching, dryness, and unwanted facial hair growth. These effects are usually mild and may improve over time. New symptoms can occur when starting any medicine and may not be related to Minoxidil. Always talk to a healthcare provider before stopping the medicine.
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.
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