Generic name: minoxidil [ min-OX-i-dil ]
Brand name: Loniten
Dosage form: oral tablet (10 mg; 2.5 mg)
Drug class:Vasodilators
What is minoxidil?
Minoxidil is a vasodilator that relaxes (widens) blood vessels and improves blood flow.
Minoxidil is used to treat severely high blood pressure (hypertension) that is causing symptoms or damaging your vital organs. Minoxidil is usually given together with two other medicines to help prevent serious side effects.
Minoxidil tablets should not be used to promote scalp hair growth. Only the topical form of minoxidil (Rogaine) is recommended for that use.
Minoxidil may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not use minoxidil if you have pheochromocytoma (adrenal gland tumor).
Minoxidil is usually given together with two other medicines to help prevent serious side effects. Use all medications as directed by your doctor.
Call your doctor at once if you have new or worsening chest pain, shortness of breath (even while lying down), pain when you breathe, or fast heartbeats.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use minoxidil if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
pheochromocytoma (tumor of the adrenal gland).
To make sure minoxidil is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
congestive heart failure;
angina (chest pain), or if you have recently had a
