Minoxidil
Also known as: Minoxidilum
Chemically Minoxidil is identified as 2, 4-diamino-6-piperidinopyrimidine 3-oxide. Oral it is an antihypertensive agent while topical Minoxidil is used for alopecia. Due to its potency and adverse reactions, oral Minoxidil is used mainly for patients with severe, drug-resistant forms of hypertension. Tolerance to prolonged therapy with oral it does not appear to be a problem. Although the oral dosage form was originally approved in October 1979 for use in hypertension, it was first discovered in 1965. Subsequently, in August 1988, a topical formulation was approved for the treatment of alopecia. It has a direct vasodilatory effect on arterial smooth muscle, causing a reduction in peripheral resistance and blood pressure.
Primary Characteristics
Minoxidil is also known as Minoxidilum.
It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Pyrimidine.
It belongs to Potassium Channel (ATP sensitive) opener pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Topical Solution pharmacological group.
Molecular Weight: 209.3 · pKa: 4.6 · Solubility in Water: Slightly soluble · Solubility in Alcohol: 1 in 25 · Non-proprietary name: Minoxidil.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Minoxidil has an oral bioavailability is 90%.
Distribution: Minoxidil has a volume of distribution is 200 - 526 litre. plasma protein binding is negligible.
Elimination: it is metabolised via Hepatic, plasma half-life is 3.5 hr, renal excretion is Mainly in form of metabolites.
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Indications
Minoxidil is primarily indicated in conditions like Alopecia, Duodenal ulceration associated with H. Pylori, Hypertension.
Contraindications
Minoxidil is contraindicated in conditions like Phaeochromocytoma.
Dosage
Minoxidil's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 52.5 mg | 52.5 mg | Every 24h | PO | Alopecia , 1ml twice daily. |
| 3.5 % | 3.5 % | Every 24h | Topical | Hypertension |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 150 ug/kg | 150 ug/kg | Every 24h | Oral | Gradually increase the Dose |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 1.05 mg/kg | 1.05 mg/kg | Every 24h | Oral | Gradually increase the Dose |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Minoxidil in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Tachycardia , Stevens johnson syndrome , Stevens johnson syndrome , Fluid retension , Gynacomastia , Oedema , Ascites , Tachycardia.
Minoxidil produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Pericardial effusion. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Minoxidil are Tachycardia .
Minoxidil is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Breast tenderness, Flushing, Headache, Hypertrichosis , Nausea, Palpitation.
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Minoxidil may interfere in the diagnosis of False +ve Catecholamine measurement test .
Available Brands
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.13.12 — Other dermatologicals