Loniten

What is it?

Avasodilator and antihypertensive preparation, available as scored, white tablets in 3 different strengths, all marked with the tablet strength on one side. White tablets contain 2.5mg of minoxidil marked with U above score and 121 below; white tablets contain 5mg of minoxidil marked with U above and below score line; white tablets contain 10mg of minoxidil marked with u above score and 137 below.

Medical Uses

Severe hypertension (high blood pressure).

Dosage

Adults, 5mg each day to begin with in 1 or more divided doses, increasing at intervals of 3 days, if needed, to 10mg daily. Then, increase by 10mg daily to a maximum of 50mg each day. Children: 0.2mg per kg of body weight to begin with each day in 1 or 2 divided doses, increasing by 0.1 to 0.2mg per kg of body weight at intervals of 3 days to a maximum of l mg per kg of body weight daily.

Special Care

Heart attack. Antihypertensives (other than diuretics and β-blockers) should be withdrawn gradually before starting treatment. Diuretics and sympathetic suppressants to be given at the same time.

Avoid Use

Phaeochromocytoma (tumour of the pituitary gland).

Known Side Effects

Fluid retention, rapid heart beat, abnormal increase in hair- growth.

Manufacturer

Pharmacia.