Minoxidil therapy for refractory hypertension and chronic renal failure

Minoxidil, a potent vasodilator antihypertensive agent, was given to 14 patients with severe hypertension uncontrolled by conventional agents. Thirteen patients had elevated serum creatinine levels. Over a period of 20 months (mean duration of administration) minoxidil lowered blood pressure from 194/124 to 147/90 mm Hg (mean values), in combination with furosemide and a sympathetic inhibitor (usually propranolol). Progression of preexisting renal disease was halted in all but three patients. Fluid retention, cardiac failure, and angina were troublesome side effects. The occurrence of hypertrichosis also limited the usefulness of minoxidil, particularly in female patients.