What are the systemic effects and possible side effects of minoxidil use?
A. Oral minoxidil is used as a medication to lower the blood pressure. The most common systemic effects associated with oral minoxidil intake are tachycardia (increased heart rate) and orthostatic hypotension (dizziness on standing). Other side effects may include fluid retention, chest pain and facial edema. There have been rare reports of pericardial effusion (fluid collection around the heart) with the use of oral minoxidil.
