Minoxidil (oral)

About minoxidil (oral)

Minoxidil (oral) works by relaxing the muscles in the walls of your blood vessels. This allows blood and oxygen to circulate more freely around the body, lowering blood pressure and reducing the strain on the heart. Minoxidil (oral) is not used alone - your doctor will also give you medicines to regulate the amount of water and salt in your body and to regulate your heart rate.

Most people suffering from high blood pressure do not feel unwell, but it is crucial that high blood pressure is not left untreated and that you continue to take this medicine even if you feel fine. If left untreated, high blood pressure can cause serious problems including heart attacks and strokes.

Before taking minoxidil (oral)

Before taking minoxidil (oral) make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you suffer from phaeochromocytoma (a tumour of the adrenal glands).
• If you have recently had a heart attack.
• If you suffer from kidney problems, angina (chest pains), or porphyria (a blood disorder).
• If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or homeopathic medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.

How to take minoxidil (oral)

• Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Try to take minoxidil (oral) at the same time each day to avoid missing doses.
• Swallow the tablets whole with a small glass of water.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Where possible, take the container with you even if it is empty.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others, even if their symptoms appear to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor so that your progress can be checked.
• Keep a record of your weight while you are taking this medicine and tell your doctor if you put on more than 2-3 pounds (1-1.5 kilograms)
• Do not stop taking minoxidil (oral) without consulting your doctor first.
• If you want to purchase an 'over-the-counter' medicine, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside minoxidil (oral).

Can minoxidil (oral) cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

A racing heartbeat, water retention (swelling of the limbs), and weight gain. Minoxidil (oral) also encourages hair growth and so may be unsuitable for women.

Less frequent side effects are feeling or being sick, diarrhoea, breast tenderness, and skin rashes.

How to store minoxidil (oral)

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines