Droxidopa
Orthostatic Hypotension
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
NA
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Droxidopa
Summary
Droxidopa is used to treat symptoms of neurogenic orthostatic hypotension. This includes dizziness and lightheadedness caused by certain nervous system conditions.
Droxidopa is a synthetic amino acid precursor of norepinephrine. It increases levels of norepinephrine, a natural substance in the body, which helps raise blood pressure and reduce symptoms.
The usual starting dose for adults is 100 mg taken orally three times a day. The dose can be increased every 24 to 48 hours by 100 mg up to a maximum of 600 mg three times daily.
Common side effects of Droxidopa include headache, dizziness, nausea, and hypertension. Serious adverse effects include confusion, high fever, muscle stiffness and changes in awareness, thinking or behavior.
Droxidopa may cause or worsen supine hypertension, increasing the risk of cardiovascular events. It is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to the drug or its ingredients.
Indications and Purpose
How does Droxidopa work?
Droxidopa is a synthetic amino acid precursor of norepinephrine. It is metabolized to norepinephrine, which increases blood pressure by inducing peripheral arterial and venous vasoconstriction. This helps alleviate symptoms of neurogenic orthostatic hypotension.
Is Droxidopa effective?
Clinical studies have shown that Droxidopa is effective in reducing symptoms of dizziness, lightheadedness, and the feeling of blacking out in patients with neurogenic orthostatic hypotension. However, the effectiveness beyond 2 weeks has not been established, and patients should be evaluated periodically to determine if the medication is still beneficial.
What is Droxidopa?
Droxidopa is used to treat symptoms of neurogenic orthostatic hypotension, such as dizziness and lightheadedness, caused by certain nervous system conditions. It works by increasing levels of norepinephrine, a natural substance in the body, which helps raise blood pressure and reduce symptoms.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Droxidopa?
The effectiveness of Droxidopa beyond 2 weeks has not been established. Patients should be evaluated periodically to determine whether Droxidopa is continuing to provide a benefit.
How do I take Droxidopa?
Droxidopa should be taken three times a day: in the morning, midday, and late afternoon, at least 3 hours before bedtime. It can be taken with or without food, but it should be taken consistently in the same manner each time. There are no specific food restrictions mentioned.
How long does it take for Droxidopa to start working?
Droxidopa can start working within 1 to 2 weeks, as shown in clinical studies. However, its effectiveness beyond 2 weeks has not been established, and patients should be evaluated periodically to determine if the medication is still beneficial.
How should I store Droxidopa?
Store Droxidopa in its original container, tightly closed, at room temperature away from light, excess heat, and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children. Do not store it in the bathroom. Dispose of unneeded medication through a take-back program.
What is the usual dose of Droxidopa?
The usual starting dose for adults is 100 mg taken orally three times a day. The dose can be increased every 24 to 48 hours by 100 mg, up to a maximum of 600 mg three times daily. The total daily dose should not exceed 1,800 mg. The safety and effectiveness of Droxidopa in children have not been established.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Droxidopa be taken safely while breastfeeding?
There is no information on the presence of Droxidopa in human milk or its effects on the breastfed child. Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions, it is advised not to breastfeed during treatment with Droxidopa.
Can Droxidopa be taken safely while pregnant?
There are no available data on the use of Droxidopa in pregnant women and the risk of major birth defects or miscarriage. Animal studies have shown some reproductive toxicity, but the relevance to humans is unknown. Consult your doctor for personalized advice if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Can I take Droxidopa with other prescription drugs?
Droxidopa may interact with drugs that increase blood pressure, such as norepinephrine, ephedrine, and midodrine, increasing the risk of supine hypertension. Non-selective MAO inhibitors should be avoided as they may increase blood pressure when taken with Droxidopa.
Is Droxidopa safe for the elderly?
No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between elderly patients and younger patients. However, greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out. It is important to monitor blood pressure regularly and adjust the dose as needed.
Who should avoid taking Droxidopa?
Droxidopa may cause or worsen supine hypertension, increasing the risk of cardiovascular events like heart attack and stroke. Patients should elevate the head of their bed and monitor blood pressure regularly. Droxidopa is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to the drug or its ingredients.
