Bietaserpine (also known as Droxidopa) is a drug used in the treatment of neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (NOH). It is an amino acid precursor of the neurotransmitters norepinephrine, epinephrine, and dopamine. It works by increasing the levels of these neurotransmitters, which helps to improve blood pressure, reduce lightheadedness, and reduce fatigue. It is typically taken orally in capsule form and may be taken with or without food.
Bietaserpine is a medication that was once used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It is a derivative of reserpine, another medication that was previously used for the same purpose. Bietaserpine works by depleting the body of certain chemicals, including norepinephrine and serotonin, that help regulate blood pressure.
Bietaserpine is no longer a first-line treatment for high blood pressure because it can cause a number of serious side effects, including:
- Depression
- Drowsiness
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Nasal congestion
- Swelling of the hands and feet
- Impotence
- Breast enlargement in men