Clinical and haemodynamic study of minoxidil in moderately hypertensive patients

1. We have evaluated the effectiveness and safety of minoxidil in moderately hypertensive out-patients. Eight patients were treated with hydrochlorothiazide and minoxidil for 5 months. The only female patient developed slight, reversible facial hair growth. In the other seven patients there was a moderate decrease in blood pressure. There were only minimal side-effects. Mild exertional tachycardia and a mean increase in body weight of 0-5 kg was found, but no oedema or signs of cardiac insufficiency were observed. No abnormalities were seen during routine blood tests. 2. This study shows that minoxidil combined with a diuretic may be successfully used in treating moderately hypertensive male patients.