MINOXIDIL-ORAL (cont.)
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially: heart problems, kidney disease, any allergies. Use caution driving or engaging in activities requiring alertness if this medication makes you dizzy or lightheaded. Minoxidil should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Minoxidil is excreted into breast milk. Though there have no reports (to date) of harm to nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially: guanethidine (even if you stopped taking it in the last three weeks), "water pills" (diuretics), other medications for high blood pressure. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose may include lightheadedness, fainting, and a fast pulse.
NOTES: It is important to have your blood pressure checked regularly while taking this medication. Learn how to monitor your blood pressure. Discuss this with your doctor.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered. If not remembered until the next day, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees F (between 20 and 25 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.
MEDICAL ALERT: Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).
Last Editorial Review: 3/2/2005
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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