TLDR Minoxidil can cause pericardial and pleural effusions with high protein content.
A patient on minoxidil developed pericardial and pleural effusions with a high protein content, which is not compatible with the view that such effusions in patients taking minoxidil are transudates. Minoxidil is a powerful vasodilator hypotensive drug which has been used extensively to control blood pressure in patients with renal failure. Pericardial effusions are associated with minoxidil therapy. The patient reported here developed a pericardial effusion with a high protein content and also pleural effusions. It is suggested that mechanisms other than fluid overload and uraemia may have a role in minoxidil related effusions.
49 citations,
January 1980 in “Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology” Minoxidil doesn't increase pericardial disorder risk, but may cause fluid accumulation.
14 citations,
October 1977 in “The Lancet”
35 citations,
July 1981 in “Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics” Minoxidil can cause dangerous fluid buildup around the heart.
January 2023 in “Skin appendage disorders” Low-dose oral minoxidil may help treat hair loss but is not FDA-approved and can cause side effects like unwanted hair growth and heart issues.
January 2022 in “Indian Dermatology Online Journal” Oral minoxidil is a safe and effective treatment for patterned hair loss.
5 citations,
January 2018 in “Javma-journal of The American Veterinary Medical Association” A dog fully recovered from minoxidil poisoning after receiving treatment.
3 citations,
August 2022 in “JAAD case reports” A woman developed swelling in her body after taking low-dose oral minoxidil for hair loss, but it resolved after stopping the medication.