Minoxidil

DescriptionMinoxidil is a peripheral vasodilator that directly relaxes vascular smooth musculature, thus, lowering systolic and diastolic pressure. Its action is linked to the activation of calcium channels. Open calcium channels cause hyperpolarization of smooth muscle cells, which in turn, reduces the flow of calcium ions into the cell, which is necessary for supporting vascular tonicity. However, when taking minoxidil, tachycardia, elevated renin secretion, and water and sodium ion retention all appear simultaneously with hypotension.

UsesUsed as an antihypertensive and antialopecia agent. Minoxidil activates ATP-activated K+ channels

UsesA selective ATP dependent K+ (Kir6) channel activator

General DescriptionMinoxidil, 2,4-diamino-6-piperidinopyrimidine-3-oxide . It is converted to minoxidil sulfate in the liver bya sulfotransferase enzyme.The antihypertensive properties of minoxidil are similarto those of hydralazine hydrochloride, in that minoxidil candecrease arteriolar vascular resistance. Minoxidil exerts itsvasodilatory action by a direct effect on arteriolar smoothmuscle and appears to have no effect on the CNS or on theadrenergic nervous system in animals. The serum half-lifeis 4.5 hours, and the antihypertensive effect may last up to24 hours.

DefinitionChEBI: Minoxidil is a pyrimidine N-oxide that is pyrimidine-2,4-diamine 3-oxide substituted by a piperidin-1-yl group at position 6. It has a role as a vasodilator agent and an antihypertensive agent. It is a pyrimidine N-oxide, a member of piperidines and an aminopyrimidine.