Minoxidil
1. Mechanism of action
It causes dilatation of arterioles by
- unclosing of potassium channels.
- causes hyperpolarization
- relaxation of smooth muscles
- results in the reduction of total peripheral vascular resistance.
- the blood pressure is reduced.
2. Actions
- Minoxidil may cause palpitations and reflex tachycardia.
- It may increase the plasma renin activity caused by reflex sympathetic activity or decrease by certain unknown mechanism.
- It may cause sodium and water retention.
3. Pharmacokinetics
It is well absorbed orally. It is metabolized in the liver. Its duration of action is about 1-3 days.
4. Therapeutic uses
1. Moderate to serious hypertension
2. severe hypertension associated with disturbance of renal function
3. topically can be used as an activator of hair growth for baldness
5. Adverse effects
- Headache,
- Tachycardia,
- angina,
- sweating,
- Excessive hair growth,
- fluid retention causing volume overload
6. Reference
http://jeepakistan.blogspot.com/2011/04/minoxidil.html
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