Key facts about Northera
What is Northera?
Northera is the brand name for droxidopa and is available as an oral capsule.
What dosages is Northera available in?
Northera is available as a 100 mg , 200 mg and 300 mg oral capsule.
What is Northera used for?
Northera is a vasoconstrictor and is used to treat low blood pressure in people with a nervous system problem called neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (nOH) that’s caused by certain medical conditions (e.g., multiple system atrophy, pure autonomic failure, Parkinson’s disease).
How does Northera work?
Northera is an adrenergic- and beta-agonist. After you take Northera, your body breaks down the medication into norepinephrine. Norepinephrine is a hormone that tightens your blood vessels to raise blood pressure.
How do I take Northera?
Northera is typically started at 100 mg by mouth three times a day (when you wake up, at midday, and in late afternoon).
The specialist who prescribed you Northera will adjust your dose based on your response to the medication and whether you’re having side effects. The maximum dose is 600 mg three times a day.
Is it safe for me to take Northera?
Northera is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you.
Northera Common Side Effects
- Common side effects of Northera:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- High blood pressure
Northera Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Northera. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Serious allergic reactions: hives; swelling of your lips, tongue, or throat; trouble breathing
- Severely high blood pressure when lying down: changes in heartbeat, pounding in the ears, headache, blurred vision
- Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS): high fever, confusion, rigid muscles
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Northera
The following medications may interact with Northera:
Who makes Northera?
Chelsea Therapeutics
Is Northera safe in pregnancy?
There are no adequate and well controlled trials in pregnant women taking Northera. You should talk to your healthcare provider before taking this medication if you are pregnant.
