Minoxidil in refractory hypertension: benefits, risks.

The blood pressure of 18 patients with refractory hypertension was controlled by treatment with Minoxidil in combination with Propranolol and diuretics. Ten of these patients were studied prospectively and were found not to have deterioration of carbohydrate tolerance while on Minoxidil therapy. Pericardial effusions occurred in 40% of the patients, including 2 with normal renal function. This untoward effect of prolonged use Minoxidil warrants further study.