The Use of Minoxidil in the Treatment of Severe Essential Hypertension: A Report on 100 Patients

In a study conducted across eleven European centers, 100 patients with severe essential hypertension were treated with minoxidil for an average of 8.4 months. The group consisted of 72 males and 28 females with a mean age of 55 years. Initial blood pressures averaged 212/125 mmHg. Within 4 weeks, 94% of patients experienced a reduction in diastolic pressure to below 100 mmHg, and after 8.4 months, the average blood pressure was reduced to 151/91 mmHg. The use of β-receptor-blocking agents and diuretics helped manage heart rate and weight gain. Side effects included increased hair growth, nausea, fatigue, rash, and skin darkening, while ECG and echocardiographic examinations showed improved cardiac function.