MINOXIDIL
Background and Date of Approval
Minoxidil is a vasodilator medication that was originally developed and approved for the treatment of hypertension. It is also available as a topical formulation for the treatment of certain types of hair loss.
Uses
It helps to treat severe hypertension and hair loss.
How is it administered?
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
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.
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.
Word of Advice
Minoxidil is contraindicated in children below 12 years of age. Patients should limit sodium chloride intake in their daily diet. Regular exercise and a well-balanced diet are advisable. Blood pressure monitoring is recommended during treatment with this medication. Cardiac function should be assessed periodically using electrocardiogram (ECG). Patients should avoid driving or operating machinery if dizziness or faintness occurs.
References
Goodman & Gilmanâs, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Treatment of myocardial ischemia and hypertension, 12th edition, 2011, 781 - 782. KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Antihypertensive drugs, 7th edition, 2013, 567. 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 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
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Minoxidil's class?
Minoxidil belongs to the group of drugs known as antihypertensive vasodilators.
Does Minoxidil cause high blood pressure?
No, minoxidil is a medication that lowers blood pressure. It works by relaxing blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more readily through them. This aids in the reduction of blood pressure.
Does Minoxidil have side effects?
Yes, Minoxidil has the potential to cause side effects. Tachycardia (increased heart rate), increased hair growth, changes in hair color, abnormal electrocardiogram (ECG), edema, and fluid retention are some common side effects of Minoxidil.
Does Minoxidil cause weight gain?
Yes, Minoxidil may cause weight gain due to water retention in the body. Limit salt intake and eat a well-balanced diet to maintain a healthy weight.
Can Minoxidil be used to grow beards?
Minoxidil should not be used to grow a beard. It is only recommended for people with a family history of hair loss who want to develop hair on their scalp.