Northern medicine: Uses, indications and precautions when using

Northera is used to treat the symptoms of orthostatic hypotension. The drug's mechanism of action is to relieve symptoms such as dizziness and lightheadedness caused by low blood pressure when standing.

Northera prescription drug, generically known as Droxidopa, is indicated in the treatment of orthostatic hypotension. The drug's mechanism of action is to relieve symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness caused by low blood pressure when standing.

Northera is formulated in capsule form and taken orally. How to use Northera properly is as follows:
Dosage is usually 3 times / day, can be taken during, before or after meals. Patients should choose and agree on how to take their medication each day. During the day, patients should pay attention to the correct dose in the morning and afternoon because they can stand a lot during the day. The drug should be taken after dinner or about 3 hours before bedtime. To reduce the risk of unwanted side effects, the doctor will prescribe the dose of Northera based on the patient's medical condition. To be effective, the patient should take the medicine regularly and at the same time every day. The drug should be continued after 2 weeks only if the symptoms show signs of improvement. Do not arbitrarily use more than 2 weeks unless directed by your doctor. In particular, in case blood pressure symptoms do not improve or get worse, inform your doctor.

Non-serious side effects: Nausea, headache, dizziness may occur. If these side effects become severe and persist, the patient should notify the treating physician. To prevent dizziness or lightheadedness, after lying down or sitting, stand up slowly. In addition, Northerna can also cause high blood pressure, especially when lying on your back. So, if you have any symptoms related to high blood pressure such as headache, heart palpitations, etc., tell your doctor right away. Very serious side effects rare: Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is a very serious side effect that rarely occurs as a result of a change in the dose of a drug. Manifestations of neuroleptic malignant syndrome such as fever, sweating, rapid or irregular heartbeat, muscle stiffness, confusion. At that time, the patient needs immediate medical attention. Very serious and very rare side effects: Allergic reactions to Northernera include signs of rash, swelling of the face, itching of the tongue and throat, trouble breathing, dizziness. In this case, the patient needs to be taken to the emergency room for timely treatment.

Before taking Northera, it is necessary to inform the doctor if the patient has any allergic conditions. Tell your doctor about your medical history, especially of heart problems such as heart attack, congestive heart failure, or irregular heartbeat. Northernera can cause dizziness, so avoid taking it while driving for your own safety. Northera can increase blood pressure, so patients should lie on high pillows. If you have to have surgery (including minor dental surgery), tell your doctor about any medicines and herbs you are taking. Women who are pregnant and breastfeeding should consult their doctor before taking Northerna. Do not arbitrarily buy Northera or change the dose without consulting your doctor. Combine taking Northera with measures such as adding salt to the diet, drinking plenty of water, wearing socks, and other belly wraps to help control hypotension when standing. Your doctor may order periodic blood pressure measurements (including blood pressure when standing, sitting, lying down) to monitor and check for side effects (if any). If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Take Northera 3 times a day to relieve symptoms of dizziness and lightheadedness caused by orthostatic hypotension. In case the symptoms are not relieved or worsened by taking the medicine prescribed by the doctor, go to a medical facility to see a doctor.

Reference source: Webmd.com