Minoxidil Associated Pleural and Pericardial Effusion in Patient on Hemodialysis

Minoxidil is a medication used to treat hypertension by directly dilating the arteries. However, about 3% of patients who take this medication experience pericardial effusion, which can lead to large pleural effusions and may require pleuro pericardiocentesis. In rare cases, patients may develop seroconstrictive pericarditis. This report describes an elderly woman who developed seroconstrictive pericardial effusion and bilateral pleural effusion seven months after taking minoxidil therapy. It has also been reported that minoxidil used in dialysis patients can cause large-volume pleuro pericardial effusions, leading to seroconstrictive pericardial effusion and anasarca, which is not common. Therefore, if a patient is on dialysis and minoxidil and they have a pleural or pericardial effusion that is unresponsive to ultrafiltration, there is a possibility of minoxidil-associated polyserositis. It is important for healthcare providers to be aware of this potential adverse effect, as prompt discontinuation of the drug can save lives.