Drug
Minoxidil
Pronounced
"min-OX-ih-dill"
Uses
Minoxidil is used with other medications to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. Minoxidil works by relaxing blood vessels so blood can flow more easily.
Warning
Minoxidil may cause serious heart problems or worsen chest pain (angina). This medication is only used when other treatments have not worked well or cannot be taken.
Your doctor should direct you to also take other medications to reduce the side effects of minoxidil. These medications include a "water pill" (diuretic) to prevent the body from holding on to too much water and salt and a heart medication (such as a beta blocker including propranolol) to prevent the heart from working too hard or beating too fast.
Your doctor will follow you closely while you are taking this medication. Keep all regular medical and lab appointments.
How to Use This Medication
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start taking this medication and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once or twice a day.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Children's dosage is also based on weight. Your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.
Take this medication and your other blood pressure medications regularly in order to get the most benefit from them. To help you remember, take them at the same time(s) each day. Keep taking your medications even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.
Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when this drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.
It may take several days to a couple of weeks before you get the full benefit of this drug. Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse (your blood pressure readings remain high or increase).