Lonitab Tablet (Minoxidil) – Vasodilator for Hypertension Treatment

Lonitab Tablet is a potent vasodilator medication primarily used to treat resistant hypertension cases where other antihypertensive drugs have proven ineffective. Containing minoxidil as its active ingredient, this second-line treatment works by relaxing and widening blood vessels, facilitating smoother blood flow and reducing blood pressure. Originally developed as an oral treatment for high blood pressure, It is now commonly prescribed when standard therapies fail to control hypertension. The tablet form offers precise dosing for patients requiring long-term blood pressure management, though it requires careful medical supervision due to its powerful effects and potential side effects.

Uses of Lonitab Tablet:

– Treatment of resistant hypertension (high blood pressure)
– Management of heart failure in specific cases
– Off-label use for severe alopecia (hair loss) in some patients

Benefits of Lonitab Tablet:

– Effective for patients unresponsive to other antihypertensives
– Rapid action in lowering blood pressure
– Helps improve blood circulation
– May promote hair growth as a side effect

Side Effects of Lonitab Tablet:

Common side effects:
– Hypertrichosis (excessive hair growth)
– Weight gain
– Tachycardia (fast heart rate)
– Hypotension (low blood pressure)
– Headaches
– Decreased white blood cell count
– ECG changes

Serious side effects (require medical attention):
– Severe dizziness or fainting
– Chest pain
– Swelling in hands/feet
– Difficulty breathing

How to Use Lonitab Tablet?

– Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor
– Swallow whole with water – do not chew, crush or break
– Can be taken with or without food
– Maintain consistent dosing times each day
– Continue treatment as directed, even if feeling better
– Do not stop suddenly without medical advice

How Lonitab Tablet Works?

The Tablet contains minoxidil, a potassium channel opener that acts as a powerful peripheral vasodilator. It works by opening ATP-sensitive potassium channels in vascular smooth muscle cells, causing arterial dilation. This mechanism reduces peripheral vascular resistance, lowers blood pressure, and decreases the heart’s workload. The vasodilation effect improves blood flow throughout the body while helping manage hypertension.

Safety Advice:

Alcohol: UNSAFE – May dangerously lower blood pressure
Pregnancy: CONSULT DOCTOR – Potential fetal risk
Breastfeeding: CONSULT DOCTOR – May pass into milk
Driving: UNSAFE – May cause dizziness or drowsiness
Kidney Disease: CAUTION – Requires dose adjustment
Liver Disease: CONSULT DOCTOR – Limited safety data

Important Interactions:
– Avoid with erectile dysfunction drugs (Viagra, Cialis)
– Caution with other blood pressure medications
– Monitor with diuretics or heart medications

What If You Missed a Dose?

If you miss a dose of Lonitab Tablet, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never take double doses to make up for a missed one. If you miss multiple doses, consult your doctor as your blood pressure may become unstable.

FAQs:

Q1. What is Lonitab Tablet used for?

It is primarily used to treat resistant hypertension cases where standard blood pressure medications have failed. It works by dilating blood vessels to improve circulation and reduce blood pressure.

Q2. Can I stop taking Lonitab when my blood pressure improves?

No, you must never stop it suddenly without medical supervision. Abrupt discontinuation can cause dangerous rebound hypertension. Always consult your doctor before making any changes to your medication.

Q3. How quickly does Lonitab work?

It begins working within about 1 hour of ingestion, with peak effects occurring within 2-3 hours. However, full therapeutic benefits for blood pressure control typically become apparent after about 7 days of consistent use.

Q4. Why does Lonitab cause hair growth?

The hypertrichosis (excessive hair growth) side effect occurs because minoxidil stimulates hair follicles. This same mechanism led to the development of topical minoxidil for hair loss treatment, though Lonitab’s systemic effects cause more widespread hair growth.

Q5. What should I do in case of overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention immediately. Overdose symptoms may include severe dizziness, fainting, rapid heartbeat, or difficulty breathing. Treatment typically involves supportive care and blood pressure monitoring.

Q6. Who should avoid Lonitab Tablet?

Patients with pheochromocytoma, acute heart failure, pulmonary edema, or hypersensitivity to minoxidil should not use Lonitab. It’s also contraindicated with certain pulmonary hypertension medications and in patients with very low blood volume.