Midodrine is used in the management of orthostatic hypotension (a condition where there is a fall in blood pressure when standing up from a sitting or lying down position).
This medicine may be used to treat other conditions as decided by your doctor.
Take Midodrine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
You may take this medicine with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day. Avoid taking this medicine after dinner or 4 hours before bedtime.
Midodrine must be taken at regular intervals for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by the doctor.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- persistent supine hypertension (high blood pressure while lying down)
- severe heart disease
- kidney disease
- unable to pass urine
- thyrotoxicosis (a condition where there is an overactive thyroid)
- pheochromocytoma (a tumour of the adrenal gland)
as Midodrine may not be suitable for you.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- diabetes
- liver disease
- problems with your eyesight
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
For as long as you are taking this medicine, you may need to have blood tests, liver and kidney function tests to check your body's response to the medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
What lifestyle changes can I make to control my blood pressure?
Regular exercise and eating a healthy diet will help control your blood pressure when getting up from a sitting or lying down position and to improve your overall health. Engage in physical activity such as exercises that will strengthen your leg muscles. Speak to your doctor about what type of exercise and diet would be suitable for you.
To minimise the symptoms of your condition, wear compression stockings or abdominal binders. Avoid hot temperature and if something falls to the ground, keep your back straight and bend with your knees. It will also help if you get up slowly from a sitting or lying down position and have your head elevated while you sleep.
Midodrine may cause any of the following side effects: goose bumps, feeling cold, skin rash and itch, numbness or tingling sensation in the hands and feet, painful and/or frequent urination.
You may experience dizziness when getting up from a sitting or lying down position, especially if you are taking Midodrine for the first time. It will help if you get up slowly from a sitting or lying position and if you take the very first dose of this medicine at bedtime.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience blood pressure suddenly rises or irregular heartbeat.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- other medicines for heart disease or high blood pressure e.g. digoxin, prazosin, doxazosin
- medicines for nasal congestion e.g. phenylephrine, pseudoephedrine, phenylpropanolamine
- medicines for migraine e.g. dihydroergotamine
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Midodrine.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.