Products
Droxidopa was approved in the United States in 2014 in capsule form (Northera). The drug is not currently registered in many countries.
Structure and properties
Droxidopa (C9H11NO5, Mr = 213.2 g/mol) exists as an odorless, tasteless, white, crystalline powder that is sparingly soluble in water. In the body, it is biotransformed by DOPA decarboxylase to the active metabolite norepinephrine. Droxidopa is a derivative of the amino acid levodopa.
Effects
Droxidopa increases blood pressure. The effects are due to the vasoconstrictive properties of the active metabolite, norepinephrine. It has a short half-life of about 2.5 hours.
Indications
For the treatment of neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (NOH).
Dosage
According to the SmPC. Capsules are usually administered three times daily: after rising, at noon, and at least three hours before bedtime.
Contraindications
Droxidopa is contraindicated in hypersensitivity. For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Drug-drug interactions are possible with agents that increase blood pressure.
Adverse effects
Among the most common possible headache, dizziness, nausea, hypertension, and fatigue.
