Atypical Case of Minoxidil-Induced Generalized Anasarca and Pleuropericardial Effusion

June 2021 in “ Cureus ”

Wahab A Gbadamosi, Jacqueline Melvin, M González López

minoxidil anasarca pleuropericardial effusion pericardial effusion pleural effusion ascites diuretics Rogaine

TLDR Minoxidil can cause severe body swelling and fluid buildup, which improves after stopping the drug and using diuretics.

This case report described a 70-year-old male with uncontrolled hypertension who developed generalized anasarca and pleuropericardial effusion while on minoxidil 10 mg twice daily. The patient presented with symptoms including body swelling, extremity pain, dyspnea, and abdominal distention. Physical examination revealed jugular vein pressure, lung crackles, abdominal distention, and pitting edema. Laboratory and imaging findings confirmed pericardial and pleural effusion, abdominal ascites, and anasarca. Discontinuation of minoxidil and initiation of intravenous diuretics led to clinical improvement. The report highlighted the importance of considering minoxidil-induced anasarca as a differential diagnosis in patients using this medication.

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Research cited in this study

3 / 3 results

research Androgenetic Alopecia: An Update Of Treatment Options

110 citations , August 2016 in “Drugs”

Minoxidil is the only FDA-approved topical drug for treating male or female pattern hair loss, and other medications like finasteride and dutasteride can also increase hair growth.

research Minoxidil: An Underused Vasodilator for Resistant or Severe Hypertension

74 citations , May 2004 in “Journal of Clinical Hypertension”

Minoxidil effectively treats severe hypertension, but watch for side effects.

research Pleuropericardial Effusion Associated With Minoxidil Administration

16 citations , May 1982 in “Postgraduate Medical Journal”

Minoxidil can cause pericardial and pleural effusions with high protein content.

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