Whole Body and Regional Hemodynamic Effects of Minoxidil in the Conscious Dog

The study examined the effects of minoxidil on hemodynamics in conscious dogs. Minoxidil caused peripheral vasodilation, reduced arterial pressure, and increased heart rate and cardiac output. It also increased blood flow to various organs and had a direct coronary vasodilator action. Minoxidil redistributed renal blood flow and caused proximal tubular antinatriuresis. The study concluded that the conscious state is more relevant for evaluating vasodilator-induced changes in blood flow in dogs.