Droxidopa is a prescription medication that is used to treat the symptoms of neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (NOH). It is a norepinephrine prodrug (a medication that the body converts into a drug) and works by increasing the amount of norepinephrine in the body, which helps to increase blood pressure. It is usually taken three times a day and may be combined with other medications to treat more severe symptoms. Side effects may include nausea, headache, dizziness, and heart palpitations.
Droxidopa is a medication used to treat the symptoms of low blood pressure that occurs when you stand up (orthostatic hypotension) caused by a certain medical condition (neurogenic orthostatic hypotension-NOH). It is sold under the brand name Northera.
Here's how it works:
- When you stand up, gravity causes blood to pool in your legs, which can lead to a drop in blood pressure.
- Droxidopa is a synthetic version of an amino acid that your body converts into a hormone called norepinephrine.
- Norepinephrine helps to narrow your blood vessels and increase your blood pressure.
Droxidopa is only used for people whose daily activities are severely affected by NOH, even after other treatments are tried (such as wearing compression stockings or drinking more fluids). It is not a cure for NOH, but it can help to improve symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting.