What is a Generic Drug?
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Loniten (Minoxidil)
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Product Details
Description
Your doctor may prescribe Loniten medication if you have hypertension that is difficult to treat. Hypertension is a chronic condition where the blood pressure is too high and can cause damage to the body. Hypertension usually has no symptoms, but Loniten should only be used if you have symptomatic hypertension with or without end-organ damage. You also need to be on the maximum dosage of at least two other drugs for high blood pressure.
Loniten works by relaxing blood vessels coming from the heart and leading into the arms and legs.
Fact Table
Formula
C9H15N5O
License
US FDA
Bioavailability
1% to 4%
Legal status
US: OTC / Rx-only
Chemical Name
Minoxidil
Elimination half-life
4.2 h
Dosage (Strength)
2.5mg, 10mg
Pregnancy
No known risks
Brands
Regaine, Loniten, Keeps
Protein binding
No Binding
PubChem CID
4201
MedlinePlus
a682608
ChEBI
6942
ATC code
C02DC01
DrugBank
DB00350
KEGG
D00418
Routes of administration
By mouth, topical
Directions
The usual dosage of Loniten is 10-40 mg by mouth, either once daily or divided into multiple dosages.
The dose may be as low as Loniten tablets 2.5 mg or as high as 100 mg.
Do not change your dosage without consulting your physician first.
Ingredients
Loniten tablets are 2.5 mg or 10 mg sizes.
The active ingredient in the drug is Minoxidil.
Interactions
There are many potential interactions with this medication, including:
- Amlodipine
- Amphetamine
- Atenolol
- Bisoprolol
- Candesartan
- Carvedilol
- Chlorthalidone
- Cocaine
- Dexmethylphenidate
- Dextroamphetamine
- Epoprostenol
- Guanethidine
- Hydrochlorothiazide
- Isosorbide
- Lisinopril
- Losartan
- Methylphenidate
- Metoprolol
- Nadolol
- Nitroglycerin
- Oxymetazoline
- Propranolol
- Sildenafil
- Tadalafil
- Tranylcypromine
- Vardenafil
Tell your healthcare team about all drugs you are taking, including over-the-counter (OTC) medications and supplements.
Cautions
Your doctor should monitor your kidney function and fluid status while using this drug.
Use caution if you have impaired kidney or liver function.
Call your doctor immediately if you develop a skin rash while taking this drug. Loniten may need to be stopped.
Side Effects
The most likely adverse effects to occur with this drug are:
- Angina
- Bullous rash
- Cardiac tamponade
- Contact dermatitis
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome
- Edema
- Erythema
- Headache
- Heart failure
- Hypotension
- Leukopenia
- Nausea
- Pericardial effusion
- Pericarditis
- Peripheral edema
- Pruritus
- Sinus tachycardia
- Sodium retention
- Thrombocytopenia
- Vomiting
References
Loniten [package insert]. New York, NY: Pfizer; 2005.
Frequently Asked Questions about Loniten (Minoxidil)
What is Loniten (Minoxidil), and what is it used for?
Loniten is a medication that contains Minoxidil as its active ingredient. It is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) when other medications have not been effective. It may also be used to treat other medical conditions as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
How does Loniten (Minoxidil) work to lower blood pressure?
Loniten works by relaxing the blood vessels, which allows blood to flow more easily through them. This effect helps to lower blood pressure. The exact mechanism of action is not fully understood.
Can Loniten be used to treat hair loss (baldness)?
Yes, Minoxidil, the active ingredient in Loniten, is also available in topical form and is used to treat male and female pattern baldness. However, Loniten tablets are not typically used for this purpose.
What are the common side effects of Loniten (Minoxidil)?
Common side effects of Loniten may include fluid retention (edema), increased heart rate, excessive hair growth (especially facial hair in women), and dizziness. It's essential to report any side effects to your healthcare provider.
Are there any serious side effects or risks associated with Loniten (Minoxidil)?
Yes, Loniten can cause serious side effects, including pericardial effusion (fluid around the heart), chest pain, and rapid weight gain. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
Can Loniten be taken with other medications?
Loniten may interact with other medications, so it's important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Your doctor will determine if Loniten is safe to take with your other medications.
Can I stop taking Loniten suddenly?
It is generally not recommended to stop taking Loniten suddenly, especially if it is being used to treat high blood pressure. Stopping suddenly can lead to a rapid increase in blood pressure. If you need to discontinue the medication, it should be done under medical supervision.
How is Loniten (Minoxidil) dosed for hypertension?
The dosing of Loniten for hypertension is determined by your healthcare provider. It is usually started at a low dose and gradually increased as needed to achieve the desired blood pressure control.
Can Loniten be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Loniten should not be used during pregnancy unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks. It is not recommended for use during breastfeeding, as Minoxidil can pass into breast milk.
How long does it take for Loniten (Minoxidil) to lower blood pressure effectively?
The time it takes for Loniten to lower blood pressure can vary from person to person. It may take several weeks to achieve optimal blood pressure control. Your healthcare provider will monitor your progress and adjust the dosage as needed.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.Product Code : 12365
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