Minoxidil Side Effects: Management & Precautions

Minoxidil is used to treat hypertension in people who have not responded to other therapies and can even be used in low doses for the treatment of male pattern baldness. Taken orally, the drug dilates blood vessels, which increases blood and oxygen supply to the heart. Patients taking Minoxidil should monitor their blood pressure and heart rate levels. Also, they should not gain more than 5 pounds.

Instructions

• 1

  If you are having side effects, talk to your doctor about whether it would be possibe to decrease your dosage until the side effects subside.

• 2

  Avoid other medications that can interact with Minoxidil and cause optical problems, such as loss of vision. One of these medications is Guanethidine, another drug used to treat hypertension. Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all medications you are taking, so they can watch for interactions.

• 3

  Take a prescribed steroid to deal with dermatological side effects such as dermatitis and rashes.