Loniten

Loniten: a potassium channel activator for the treatment of baldness

Loniten, also known by its international name Minoxidil, is a drug used to treat male pattern baldness, known as androgenetic alopecia, in both men and women. It belongs to the pharmaceutical group of antihypertensive drugs that are potassium channel activators.

Loniten is produced by Upjohn companies in the UK and Belgium. It is available in the form of 5 mg tablets. The active ingredient of the drug is Minoxidil.

The use of Loniten is recommended for patients suffering from androgenetic alopecia, which is characterized by gradual and progressive hair loss on the scalp. It is effective in both men and women and can help improve hair density and stimulate hair growth.

However, before using Loniten, contraindications must be taken into account. The drug should not be used if you are hypersensitive to Minoxidil, as well as during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Its use is also not recommended in the presence of pheochromocytoma, mitral stenosis and secondary pulmonary hypertension when using tablets. When applying the solution topically, it should not be applied to skin areas with impaired integrity or to areas with dermatosis of the scalp.

Side effects may occur when using Loniten. Some patients may experience dizziness, headaches and visual disturbances, including decreased visual acuity. From the cardiovascular system, symptoms may appear, such as low blood pressure, tachycardia, arrhythmia and heart failure. Skin reactions may include hypertrichosis (increased hair growth), thinning and increased pigmentation of body hair, and dryness, flaking, itching, dermatitis and eczema on the scalp. In rare cases, allergic reactions such as rash, facial swelling, rhinitis and hives may occur. There are also cases of sodium and water retention in the body, edema, shortness of breath, decreased libido and other side effects.

When using Loniten, you must be careful in interactions with other medications. Nitrates, diuretics and beta-blockers can enhance the hypotensive effect of Loniten.

It is important to consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting to take Loniten. They will be able to evaluate your medical history, taking into account possible contraindications and interactions with other drugs, and make recommendations for dosage and use.

The information provided here is based on the state of knowledge at the time of my last update in September 2021. Please note that medical advice may change over time and you should always consult current sources and medical professionals.