Response to the Role of Patient and Drug-Related Factors in Oral Minoxidil and Pericardial Effusion: Analyses of Data From the United States Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System

The document discusses the findings of Gupta et al. regarding the incidence of pericardial effusions in patients using oral minoxidil, particularly for alopecia. The study found a 1.27% incidence rate and a dose-independent relationship for pericardial effusions, with a significant association in patients using minoxidil for hypertension. Only 6.7% of cases were reported in those using it for alopecia. The authors highlight the lack of standardized guidelines for monitoring cardiovascular risks in alopecia patients using oral minoxidil, unlike in hypertension management. They suggest that underreporting of pericardial effusions may occur due to differences in monitoring strategies and advocate for a collaborative approach between specialties to improve risk stratification and patient monitoring. The need for further research to establish standardized protocols and guidelines for oral minoxidil use in alopecia is emphasized to minimize adverse events and enhance treatment efficacy.