Note: This document contains side effect information about droxidopa. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name Northera.
Summary
More frequent side effects include: hypertension. Continue reading for a comprehensive list of adverse effects.
Applies to droxidopa: oral capsule.
Warning
Oral route (Capsule)
Monitor supine blood pressure before and during treatment, and more frequently when increasing doses. Elevating the head of the bed lessens the risk of supine hypertension and blood pressure should be measured in this position. If supine hypertension cannot be managed by elevating the head of the bed, reduce or discontinue droxidopa.
Serious side effects of Northera
Along with its needed effects, droxidopa (the active ingredient contained in Northera) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking droxidopa:
More common
- Bladder pain
- bloody or cloudy urine
- blurred vision
- difficult, burning, or painful urination
- dizziness
- fainting
- frequent urge to urinate
- lower back or side pain
- nervousness
- pounding in the ears
- slow or fast heartbeat
Other side effects of Northera
Some side effects of droxidopa may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.
Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:
More common
- Headache
- nausea
For Healthcare Professionals
Applies to droxidopa: oral capsule.
Cardiovascular
Common (1% to 10%): Hypertension (greater than 5%)
Frequency not reported: Supine hypertension, exacerbation of existing heart disease, arrhythmias, and congestive heart failure[Ref]
Gastrointestinal
Common (1% to 10%): Nausea[Ref]
Genitourinary
Very common (10% or more): Urinary tract infections (15% in the elderly)[Ref]
Musculoskeletal
Very common (10% or more): Falls (24% in the elderly)[Ref]
Nervous system
Very common (10% or more): Headache (up to 15%), syncope (13% in the elderly), dizziness (up to 11%)[Ref]
