Minoxidil as a Treatment for High Blood Pressure

Use of minoxidil

Minoxidil is used for severe high blood pressure, when other medication regimes such as maximum doses of a diuretic and two other medications have not controlled blood pressure.

Consequently this drug is generally taken with two other medications, usually a diuretic and a beta blocker or clonidine.

Note: External application (topical) of minoxidil (Rogaine) is used for male pattern baldness. For high blood pressure minoxidil is taken in pill form.

Potential side effects of minoxidil

Minoxidil can increase heart rate, cause very rapid weight gain, swelling of the hands, feet and ankles, lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting, severe indigestion, and worsen angina (chest pain). A physician should be notified immediately if any of these symptoms occur.

As with all drugs, there may be side effects when this class of drugs is taken in combination with certain other drugs. Make sure that your health care provider is aware of any, and all, prescription drugs, non-prescription drugs, herbal supplements, nutritional supplements and vitamins that are being taken.