A Guide to Low Blood Pressure Medication

Low blood pressure, also referred to as hypotension, is a blood pressure reading under 90/60 millimeters. The symptoms differ widely from one person to another, and what may be considered a low blood pressure reading for one individual might be normal for someone else. It can cause various symptoms, including dizziness, fatigue, and fainting. But often, low blood pressure has no noticeable effects.

A variety of factors, including dehydration, medication side effects, heart problems, and endocrine disorders, cause low blood pressure. Some people develop hypotension as they get older. Fortunately, medications are available to help manage the condition's symptoms.

Low blood pressure medication increases blood flow to the heart and other organs, helping to normalize pressure levels. In some cases, lifestyle modifications such as increasing sodium intake and drinking more fluids can also help to manage the illness.

Diagnosing Low Blood Pressure

Low blood pressure has categories, each requiring a specific treatment plan. There are three main types of low blood pressure namely:

• Orthostatic Hypotension: Occurs when a person's blood pressure drops suddenly when they stand up, often due to dehydration or a decrease in blood volume.
• Postprandial Hypotension: The type of low blood pressure that occurs an hour or two hours after eating. It is common in older adults with autonomic nervous system conditions like Parkinson's disease.
• Neurally Mediated Hypotension: The type of low blood pressure that happens after a person stands for long periods.

Some disorders trigger hypotension in patients. For example, Shy-Drager syndrome affects the nervous system that controls heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure can also cause the condition.

It is crucial to diagnose the specific type of low blood pressure to determine the appropriate medication and treatment plan. Doctors may use various tests to confirm a diagnosis and prescribe the most effective low-blood pressure medication to manage the condition.

Common Low Blood Pressure Medication

Healthcare providers often prescribe low blood pressure medications to help regulate blood pressure levels. Treatments can include IV fluids, prescription medication, antibiotics, and even surgery. The goals of the treatment plan are to increase the blood volume and make vessels constrict. Patients may also be prescribed medicines for the kidney since it is the organ responsible for maintaining fluid balance.

The following are commonly prescribed low blood pressure medications:

Fludrocortisone (Florinef®)

Fludrocortisone is a drug that effectively treats patients with low blood pressure. It promotes sodium retention by the kidney, which in turn increases the volume of the blood. Patients can expect swelling since the body retains more fluid when taking the drug. Weight gain is also a typical result.

Possible side effects include muscle weakness, tiredness, headache, and stomach discomfort. In addition, fludrocortisone also promotes potassium loss, so patients need to get enough potassium to avoid adverse health effects.

Like any other medication, fludrocortisone may also interact with other drugs, affecting its absorption. Patients must inform their doctor if they are taking one or some of the following:

• Pain relief medication (ibuprofen, Diclofenac®, and naproxen)
• Fungal infection medication
• Oral hormone pills
• Blood thinning medication
• Aspirin
• A medication that regulates the immune system (cyclosporine and tacrolimus)

Midodrine (Orvaten®)

Midodrine works by stimulating the sympathetic nervous system, which helps to increase blood pressure. It can be taken orally or intravenously and is typically used to treat symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and fatigue.

Side effects of this medication are rare but may include headaches, blurred vision, and pounding in the ears. These symptoms usually disappear during treatment as the body adjusts to the medicine. However, if patients are experiencing discomfort for a prolonged period, they must immediately inform their healthcare provider so their physician can make the necessary adjustments to their treatment plan.

Natural Remedies for Low Blood Pressure

Medication is vital to manage the symptoms of low blood pressure and treat its root cause, but patients must also make positive lifestyle changes such as the following:

• Drink more water
• Use more salt
• Wear compression stockings
• Eat low-carb meals
• Exercise regularly

Get Discounts on Low Blood Pressure Medication

Treating low blood pressure requires a specialized treatment plan that involves medication and lifestyle changes. However, each case is different, so you must speak with your doctor about your particular situation and determine which drug works best.

However, low blood pressure medication is not inexpensive. Plus, patients need to take them for years, which adds to the costs.

Thankfully, Inside Rx discount cards are available that can help reduce out-of-pocket costs of prescription medications. Cardholders can save up to an 80% discount on brand and generic prescription medications. We have nearly 60,000 pharmacy partners in the United States and Puerto Rico that can grant discounted prices on prescription drugs for you and your family. The best part is our discount cards are completely free and require no paperwork or signups.

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Sources:

• https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/low-blood-pressure-hypotension/
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/low-blood-pressure/symptoms-causes/syc-20355465
• https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/low-blood-pressure
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34000076/
• https://www.healthhub.sg/a-z/medications/357/Fludrocortisone-for-Low-Blood-Pressure
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/midodrine-oral-route/precautions/drg-20064821?p=1