What is Pharmacology - Minoxidil

​Minoxidil

Minoxidil is known as potassium channel activator. Minoxidil is given orally. Minoxidil will activates the potassium channel which cause the hyperpolarization of the membrane. This will inhibit the voltage gated calcium channel. There will reduce the contraction of the vascular smooth muscle. 

Minoxidil is useful in treating patient with severe cases of hypertension. Minoxidil may lead to hirsutism. In some cases, minoxidil is useful in providing topical therapy to treat baldness. Other sides effect may include angina and tachycardia ( beta blocker is given). Patient is given loop diuretic due to side effects of minoxidil which is retention of the water and salt. The half life of minoxidil is 4 hours.