Lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting and nausea are just a few of the symptoms that characterize low blood pressure (hypotension). Blood pressure is the force of blood against vessel walls. As the pressure declines, so does the movement of blood to the brain and other organs. Medications to elevate blood pressure are available to help people experiencing hypotension.
Vasopressin
Vasopressin is a synthetic anti-diuretic hormone that works to decrease urination and promote water reabsorption, says Drugs.com. It also tightens blood vessel muscles so that blood pressure increases. Vasopressin is also used to treat stomach problems and diabetes insipidus, a condition characterized by frequent urination and thirst.
Vasopressin's side effects include dizziness, a headache, stomach pain, gas (flatulence), chest pain, trouble breathing and a slow heart rate, says Drugs.com. This drug also leads to rapid weight gain, swelling, tingling of the hands and feet and skin discoloration.
Dosage adjustments might be required if kidney disease, asthma, heart disease, migraines and seizures develop, says Drugs.com. Vasopressin can contaminate breast milk and be passed to a nursing baby, so do not use this drug if breast feeding.
Vasopressin can interact with such drugs as fludrocortisone, lithium, heparin, chlorpropamide and carbamazepine, says Drugs.com, so make sure your physician is aware of all medications you might be taking.
Fludrocortisone
Fludrocortisone, classified as a corticosteroid medication, regulates the water and salt in the body. This medication also treats Addison's disease, which is caused by a cortisol deficiency, and low blood pressure.
MedlinePlus says that fludrocortisone's side effects include restlessness, depression, anxiety, menstrual irregularities, dizziness, trouble sleeping and muscle weakness. Fludrocortisone's other effects include black stool and a persistent infection.
Combining fludrocortisone with digoxin, cyclosporine, warfarin, ketoconazole and estrogen can lead to drug interactions. In some cases, a dose change is necessary. Taking aspirin, arthritis medications and drinking alcohol while taking fludrocortisone can increase the chances of developing a stomach or gastrointestinal ulcer, says MedlinePlus.
Midrodrine
Midrodrine is a vasopressor medication that works to constrict blood vessels and promote an increase in blood pressure, says Drugs.com. Its effects include a dry mouth, anxiety, nervousness, head pressure, difficulty urinating, chills and itching of the skin. Midrodrine can also lead to chest pain and irregular heartbeats.
Drugs.com indicates that midrodrine, when combined with digoxin, quinidine, cimetidine, triamterene, metformin and flecainide, might require adjustments in dosage.
