Product Name & Packaging
Brand Name: MINOXIDIL
Generic Name: Minoxidil
Strength & Packaging: 30 × 10 mg tablets per box. Oral minoxidil tablets are marketed in 2.5 mg and 10 mg strengths.

Description
Minoxidil is a direct-acting peripheral vasodilator used in the management of severe hypertension, particularly in patients whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled with standard antihypertensive therapy. It is generally used in combination with other medications and should be administered under close medical supervision.

Indications
Oral minoxidil is indicated for the treatment of severe hypertension that is symptomatic or associated with target-organ damage and is not manageable with maximum therapeutic doses of a diuretic plus two other antihypertensive drugs.

Dosage & Administration
The recommended initial adult dose is typically 5 mg once daily. If needed, the dose may be increased to 10 mg, 20 mg, and then 40 mg daily in single or divided doses, depending on clinical response. The effective dosage range is usually 10 to 40 mg per day. Oral minoxidil is generally given with a diuretic and often a beta blocker to help manage fluid retention and tachycardia.

Mechanism of Action
Minoxidil works by relaxing vascular smooth muscle, resulting in peripheral vasodilation and reduced blood pressure. This improves blood flow by decreasing vascular resistance.

Precautions
Minoxidil should be used with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease, angina, recent myocardial infarction, renal impairment, or fluid-retention risk. It may worsen chest pain or contribute to serious cardiac effects in susceptible patients. Careful monitoring is recommended, especially because oral minoxidil can cause marked sodium and water retention and reflex tachycardia.

Side Effects
Common adverse effects may include fluid retention, rapid heartbeat, weight gain, flushing, nausea, vomiting, and hypertrichosis (increased hair growth). More serious reactions can include chest pain, shortness of breath, and worsening cardiac symptoms.

Storage
Store at controlled room temperature in a tightly closed container, protected from excessive heat, light, and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and follow the manufacturer’s labeled storage instructions.