Midodrine causes bloods vessels to tighten which increases blood pressure. This action can help to treat orthostatic hypotension (also known as postural hypotension), POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) and Vasovagal Syncope (also known as reflex syncope or ‘fainting’).
Midodrine can be used when conservative measures are insufficient to relieve symptoms.
It is important to continue conservative measures while taking Midodrine:
- Drink at least 1.5-2 litres of water before 2pm each day
- Add salt to your diet if advised to do so in the clinic
- Physical counter manoeuvres (tightening lower limb muscles) for acute symptom relief
Please ensure you read the medication information leaflet carefully prior to taking it
It is unknown whether Midodrine causes harm to an unborn child.
Please notify your doctor
- If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or are breast-feeding
- If you are taking prescription or non-prescription drugs, herbal preparations, or dietary supplements
Dose
It is prescribed up to three times daily in doses of 2.5mg up to 10mg
(maximum dose 10mg three times daily)
When to take Midodrine
It is important that midodrine is taken at specific times of the day and to avoid taking it in the 4 hours before bed.
This is because:
- Midodrine has a short duration of action (known as its ‘half-life’)
- Midodrine can cause high blood pressure when lying flat (known as supine hypertension)
It will be explained to you by a member of the team which time(s) you should take your Midodrine.
Side-effects:
Midodrine is usually well tolerated; the main side effects are listed below:
- Chills
- Flushing
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Headache
- Nausea
- Paraesthesia (pins and needles)
- Piloerection (‘goosebumps’)
- Scalp pruritus (itch)
- Skin reactions / rash
- Stomatitis (inflamed or sore mouth)
Important uncommon/rare side effects:
- Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
- Hepatic (liver function) abnormalities
Please ensure your doctor is aware of all the medications you are currently taking, both prescription and non-prescription.
Secretary Tel: 0191 445 3843