Phenylephrine
Biorphen is a brand-name medication containing droxidopa, a prodrug that is converted in the body to norepinephrine. It is primarily used to treat symptomatic neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (nOH), a condition where blood pressure drops excessively upon standing due to impaired autonomic nervous system function. This medication helps reduce dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting associated with this condition.
Biorphen is used to treat neurogenic orthostatic hypotension by converting to norepinephrine to help maintain blood pressure upon standing.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 151441
- Generic
- Biorphen
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Symptomatic neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (nOH) associated with Parkinson's disease, multiple system atrophy, pure autonomic failure, dopamine beta-hydroxylase deficiency, and other autonomic disorders. It helps relieve symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, fatigue, and fainting.
Biorphen (droxidopa) is a synthetic amino acid precursor that crosses the blood-brain barrier and is converted to norepinephrine by the enzyme dopamine beta-hydroxylase. This increases norepinephrine levels, which helps restore the body's ability to constrict blood vessels and maintain adequate blood pressure when changing from sitting or lying to standing positions.
May cause supine hypertension (elevated blood pressure while lying down), which requires monitoring. Not recommended for patients with uncontrolled heart failure, pheochromocytoma, or those taking MAO inhibitors. Should be discontinued gradually to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Effectiveness may diminish over time, and patients should be reassessed periodically. Common side effects include headache, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed September 3, 2026. · Read our editorial policy