Long-Term Experiences With Minoxidil in Combination Treatment of Severe Arterial Hypertension

In a 1977 study, 13 patients with severe hypertension not adequately managed by conventional drugs were treated with minoxidil, a beta-blocker, and a thiazide. The treatment significantly reduced mean supine blood pressure from 214/122 mm Hg to 166/95 mm Hg. Minoxidil doses ranged from 7.5 to 35 mg per day, with an average of 18.8 mg. Reflex tachycardia necessitated beta-blockade in all cases. Two patients were not satisfactorily controlled, and minoxidil was discontinued in five cases, three due to side effects like sodium retention and increased hair growth. One patient developed stable diabetes, while two with existing diabetes required oral antidiabetic drugs. Minoxidil was deemed a safe and effective long-term antihypertensive treatment for severe cases but was not recommended for routine use.