Droxidopa Side Effects
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 14, 2025.
Applies to droxidopa: oral capsule.
Important warnings
This medicine can cause some serious health issues
Oral route (capsule)
Monitor supine blood pressure before and during treatment, and more frequently when increasing doses.
Elevating the head of the bed lessens the risk of supine hypertension and blood pressure should be measured in this position.
If supine hypertension cannot be managed by elevating the head of the bed, reduce or discontinue droxidopa.
Precautions
It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits. This will allow your doctor to see if the medicine is working properly and to check for unwanted effects caused by this medicine. You may also need to monitor your blood pressure at home before, during, and after treatment.
This medicine may increase your risk of having supine hypertension, which can lead to stroke or heart attack. You doctor will tell you to rest or sleep in an upper body elevated position and monitor your blood pressure. If you notice changes in your blood pressure, tell your doctor right away.
This medicine may cause confusion, fever, and worsening of heart or blood vessel problems. Tell your doctor right away if you have these conditions.
If your condition does not improve within 2 weeks, or if it become worse, check with your doctor.
Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This includes prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines and herbal or vitamin supplements.
Serious side effects of droxidopa
Along with its needed effects, droxidopa may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking droxidopa:
More common side effects
- bladder pain
- bloody or cloudy urine
- blurred vision
- difficult, burning, or painful urination
- dizziness
- fainting
- frequent urge to urinate
- lower back or side pain
- nervousness
- pounding in the ears
- slow or fast heartbeat
Other side effects of droxidopa
Some side effects of droxidopa may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.
Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:
For healthcare professionals
Applies to droxidopa: oral capsule.
Cardiovascular adverse events
- Common (1% to 10%): Hypertension (greater than 5%)
- Frequency not reported: Supine hypertension, exacerbation of existing heart disease, arrhythmias, and congestive heart failure[Ref]
Gastrointestinal
- Common (1% to 10%): Nausea[Ref]
Genitourinary
- Very common (10% or more): Urinary tract infections (15% in the elderly)[Ref]
Musculoskeletal
- Very common (10% or more): Falls (24% in the elderly)[Ref]
Nervous system
- Very common (10% or more): Headache (up to 15%), syncope (13% in the elderly), dizziness (up to 11%)[Ref]
See also:
ProAmatine
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Botox
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Sudafed PE Congestion
Sudafed PE (phenylephrine) is used to treat nasal congestion and sinus pressure caused by ...
Northera
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Ephedrine
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Phenylephrine
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References
1. (2014) "Product Information. Northera (droxidopa)." Chelsea Therapeutics Inc
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Further information
Droxidopa side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.
