by William Menna

Created on: August 30, 2010

Minoxidil is the generic name for the hair-growth drug commonly known as Rogaine. Minoxidil is most commonly known for combating balding though it is also used to treat high blood pressure or hypertension. It comes in both topical form and as a pill, depending on what is is being used to treat. The side effects of minoxidil vary based on the form of the drug, with the hair-restoring version causing generally minor side effects while the oral medication comes with more serious risks.

Minoxidil as a hair-growth agent is applied directly to the scalp as a topical medication. Rogaine comes in liquid or foam form and should be gently rubbed into the scalp. Before use, hair should be clean and dry. After application, it will require at least two and as many as four hours to dry. Rogaine is typically used twice daily and requires continuous use over several months for its full benefits to be obtained.

According to the National Institutes of Health, the most common side effects of Rogaine minoxidil are itching, burning, and redness of the scalp. This irritation generally only occurs during early use and goes away over time, but if it persists or intensifies, a medical consult should be sought. Rarely, the body will absorb high quantities of the medication and experience more severe complications. The Mayo Clinic reports that these more serious side effects of minoxidil in Rogaine form include blurred vision, lightheadedness, an increased heart rate, edema or weight gain, and chest pain.

Minoxidil as used to treat high blood pressure is a type of drug known as antihypertensives. The antihypertensive drug is also known by the brand name Loniten. This version of minoxidil comes in tablet form and is taken orally, typically once daily. The Mayo Clinic states that Loniten makes the blood vessels relax to ease the burden on the heart and arteries. In addition to Loniten, a reduced-sodium diet may also be ordered to combat high blood pressure.

In its oral form, the side effects of minoxidil or Loniten can be far more severe. According to WebMD, minoxidil is generally used as a secondary option to treat hypertension because it can cause heart problems or exacerbate underlying heart trouble. The most common side effects of oral minoxidil include an irregular heartbeat, nausea, and weight gain. Thanks to its hair-growth properties, another possible side effect of minoxidil/Loniten is more aggressive growth of body hair. If it causes changes in heart rate, trouble breathing, swelling, skin rashes, or itching, seek immediate medical attention to protect against a potential allergic reaction.

Minoxidil, also known as Rogaine or Loniten, is a drug used to deal primarily with hair loss and hypertension. When used in topical form, the side effects of minoxidil are typically minor and usually short-lived. The pill form of minoxidil, however, is more likely to produce harsher side effects. Regardless of the type of minoxidil being used, talk to your doctor about any drug allergies you have and about any side effects you develop during use.

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