How should I take droxidopa?
Follow all directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Droxidopa is usually taken 3 times per day, as follows. First dose in the morning when you wake up; second dose at mid-day; third dose in the late afternoon or at least 3 hours before you go to bed. The timing of your doses is very important in helping to maintain a healthy blood pressure while you are taking droxidopa. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.
You may take droxidopa with or without food, but take it the same way each time.
Do not crush, chew, break, or open a droxidopa capsule. Swallow it whole.
Droxidopa can increase your blood pressure even while you are lying down or sleeping (when blood pressure is usually lowest). Long-term high blood pressure (hypertension) can lead to heart attack or stroke, which may be fatal.
Follow your doctor's instructions about the best way to position your body while you are laying down or sleeping. You may need to keep your head elevated to help prevent high blood pressure.
Your blood pressure will need to be checked before and during treatment with droxidopa, or whenever your dose is changed. Check your blood pressure while you are lying down, and check it again with your head elevated.
Your doctor will need to check your progress at regular visits if you use droxidopa for longer than 2 weeks.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.