This page contains brief details about the drug , it's indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

Midodrine is an antihypotensive drug approved for its medical use in 1996

Mechanism of Action of undefined

The active metabolite of Midodrine is an alpha1-agonist that works by activating the alpha-adrenergic receptors to exert its effects. It constricts blood vessels and increases blood pressure.

Uses of undefined

It helps to treat orthostatic hypotension ( low blood pressure after sitting or lying down). 

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

The recommended starting dose of Midodrine tablet is 2.5 mg thrice daily with or without food. This dose can be increased weekly to 10 mg three times daily, which is the standard maintenance dose of 30 mg daily. Do not take this medication after the evening or less than three to four hours before bedtime.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

Warnings

Midodrine is not recommended for patients with high blood pressure, a slow pulse, trouble passing urine, or certain cardiovascular diseases. If you experience allergies to Midodrine and its ingredients, report to your doctor immediately. Inform your healthcare practitioner if you are diagnosed with a severe kidney problem. Your health care provider will regularly monitor kidney function and blood pressure during treatment. Avoid drinking alcohol since it may cause unpleasant side effects.

Precautions

Consult your doctor before using Midodrine drug if you are pregnant or plan to have a baby. Even though there are limited studies on humans, animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Before prescribing them, your doctor will weigh the benefits and potential risks. Avoid breastfeeding your baby while on treatment with Midodrine as it passes into the breastmilk and harms the baby.

Side Effects

The side effects known to occur commonly during the treatment with Midodrine are goosebumps, itching of the scalp and pain when urinating, headache, nausea, heartburn, rashes, chills, sweating, dyspepsia, flushing, intense heat feeling, urinary retention, palpitations, and chest pain. Notify your physician immediately if you have supine hypertension (increased blood pressure while lying down).

Word Of Advice

Midodrine should not be given to children and adolescents below 18. Regular blood pressure checking is recommended during treatment with this medication, and the dose is adjusted if necessary. It is not recommended to use this medication after the evening. Driving or using machinery should be avoided if you experience dizziness or lightheadedness.

Frequently Asked Question

References

  1. Goodman & Gilman’s, The Pharmacological Basics of Therapeutics, Adrenergic agonists and antagonists, 12th edition, 2011,294-295.
  2. Brancaster Pharma Limited, Electronic medicines compendium (EMC), [ Revised on January 2021], [Accessed on 7th September 2022], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.2265.pdf
  3. Shrine US Inc., US Food and Drug Administration, [ Revised on January 2017] [Accessed on 7th September  2022], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/019815s010lbl.pdf

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice; it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.