Hypertension:
Indications for: Minoxidil
Refractory hypertension, usually with a diuretic and β-blocker (see literature).
Adult Dosage:
Initially 5 mg once daily; may increase at 3-day intervals to 10 mg/day, then 20 mg/day, then 40 mg/day (monitor closely if titrated faster). Usual range 10–40 mg/day; max 100 mg/day. If drop in diastolic pressure >30 mmHg, give in 2 divided doses.
Children Dosage:
Initially 0.2 mg/kg once daily; may increase at 3-day intervals by 50–100%. Usual range 0.25–1 mg/kg per day; max 50 mg/day.
Minoxidil Contraindications:
Pheochromocytoma.
Minoxidil Warnings/Precautions:
Supervise closely. Do not use in patients with history of recurrent pericarditis, or history of recurrent or chronic pericardial effusion. Malignant hypertension. Angina. Post MI. Heart failure. Renal dysfunction. Monitor fluid and electrolyte balance, body weight, and for pericardial effusion. Elderly. Labor & delivery. Pregnancy (Cat.C). Nursing mothers: not recommended.
Minoxidil Classification:
Vasodilator.
Minoxidil Interactions:
Avoid guanethidine (hospitalize until stable if used).
Adverse Reactions:
Pericardial effusion or tamponade, pericarditis, salt/fluid retention, cardiac failure, tachycardia, angina, hypertrichosis, rash, GI upset, ECG changes; rare: Stevens-Johnson syndrome, thromobocytopenia, leukopenia.
Note:
Formerly known under the brand names Loniten, Minodyl.
How Supplied:
Contact supplier.
