Lonitab

Uses
Lonitab (Minoxidil) is taken orally to control and treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Its active component is an antihypertensive peripheral vasodilator, and when used under careful medical supervision, it can help to reduce peripheral vascular resistance, leading to reduced blood pressure. Due to the fact that it can cause fluid retention and other adverse effects, doctors generally prescribe other medicines to patients taking it. Although a topical formula containing the same ingredient as this medicine is used as a hair loss treatment, the oral formula is not administered for the treatment of baldness.

Dosage and Administration
If you are being treated with Lonitab (Minoxidil) your doctor will decide the correct dosage regimen, as well as telling you which other medicines are required (such as a diuretic). Adult patients undergoing treatment for hypertension are often told to start treatment with 5mg taken once per day. For maintenance treatment, the doctor may adjust the dosage and tell the patient to take a dosage ranging from 10mg to 40mg (as 1 to 2 divided doses) per day. The rate at which dosage adjustment occurs will be decided by the doctor, based on the patient's response to treatment or other reasons.

Side effects
Treating high blood pressure with Lonitab (Minoxidil) may cause:

• Nausea
• Dizzy sensation
• Hair colour changes
• Pain that affects the breasts
• Hypertrichosis (an increase in the growth of hair on the body)

Report any side effects that occur to your doctor. If you experience inflammation affecting the feet, bruising, a rapid weight increase or any other signs of a severe reaction, you must seek medical treatment straight away.

Precautions
Your doctor may tell you to check your body weight on a daily basis, as fluid retention may cause sudden weight gain.

This medicine should not be used by patients with pheochromocytoma.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Lonitab (Minoxidil) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.