Droxidopa
Droxidopa is a synthetic amino acid analog used to treat neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (nOH), a condition characterized by dangerously low blood pressure upon standing due to autonomic nervous system dysfunction. The medication works by being converted to norepinephrine in the body, helping to increase blood pressure and improve symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting. It is typically prescribed when other treatments have not been effective.
Droxidopa treats neurogenic orthostatic hypotension by converting to norepinephrine to raise blood pressure and reduce dizziness upon standing.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- C01CA27
- RxNorm
- 1489913
- Generic
- Droxidopa
- Class
- atc-c01
- Brands
- Northera
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- capsule
- 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.
Droxidopa is indicated for the treatment of symptomatic neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (nOH) caused by primary autonomic failure (such as Parkinson's disease, multiple system atrophy, or pure autonomic failure), dopamine beta-hydroxylase deficiency, or non-diabetic autonomic neuropathy.
Droxidopa is a prodrug that is directly metabolized to norepinephrine by the enzyme dopa-decarboxylase (DDC), which is widely distributed throughout the body. The resulting increase in norepinephrine levels helps constrict blood vessels and raise blood pressure, thereby reducing the symptoms of orthostatic hypotension.
Droxidopa may cause supine hypertension (elevated blood pressure while lying down), which can be serious. Patients should be monitored for cardiovascular effects and have their blood pressure regularly checked in both supine and standing positions. Common side effects may include headache, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. The medication should be used with caution in patients with heart disease, history of stroke, or those taking other blood pressure medications.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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 July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy