What is droxidopa used to treat?

Droxidopa is used to treat neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting) caused by primary autonomic failure (eg, Parkinson’s disease, multiple system atrophy, and pure autonomic failure), dopamine beta-hydroxylase deficiency, and non-diabetic autonomic neuropathy.

Does droxidopa lower BP?

Droxidopa may cause or worsen supine hypertension (high blood pressure that occurs when lying flat on your back) that may increase the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke.

How quickly does droxidopa work?

Although it is not FDA-approved for this indication, a low dose of fludrocortisone (0.1–0.2 mg/day) is often used in the treatment of nOH. Although higher dosages are used they are rarely more effective and side effects are amplified. Clinical effects are seen after 1–2 weeks of treatment [18].

What are the side effects of droxidopa?

Common side effects of Northera include:

• headache,
• dizziness,
• nausea,
• high blood pressure (hypertension),
• tired feeling,
• falls,
• urinary tract infections, and.
• fainting.

Does droxidopa increase blood pressure?

Droxidopa can increase your blood pressure even while you are lying down. You may need to keep your head elevated during sleep to help prevent high blood pressure. Follow your doctor’s instructions about how to position your body while you are lying down or sleeping.

Can you open droxidopa?

Do not open or break the capsules. Take your late afternoon dose of NORTHERA at least 3 hours before bedtime to reduce the risk of supine hypertension (high blood pressure while lying down).

Is Northera covered by Medicare?

Assistance is available when you prescribe NORTHERA Medicare Part D provides prescription drug coverage for Medicare patients. Part D coverage is optional. Patients need to enroll in a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan or a Medicare Advantage Plan to take advantage of Part D benefits.

What is an alternative to midodrine?

Atomoxetine, a selective NET blocker, increases upright blood pressure and improves OH-related symptoms to a greater extent than midodrine, the current standard of care. Atomoxetine could be a new therapeutic alternative for the treatment of OH in patients with autonomic failure.