Minoxidil

This 1981 document discusses the use of minoxidil as an effective antihypertensive agent for patients whose blood pressure cannot be controlled with other medications. It can control blood pressure in most patients within 48 to 72 hours, but there are several adverse reactions that may limit its use, including reflex activation of the adrenergic nervous system, sodium retention, and hypertrichosis. The recommended starting dose is 2.5 mg per day, which can be increased up to a maximum of 40 mg per day if necessary. Hypertrichosis can be a side effect of minoxidil and can be treated with depilatory agents.