Orthostatic hypotension (OH) is a sudden drop in blood pressure when sitting up or when standing up. Many (most?) with MSA have this symptom. And about 40% of those with LBD have this symptom. It can lead to fainting or falling.
Yesterday, the FDA approved droxidopa (Northera is the brand name) for use in treating orthostatic hypotension. As we’ve read on the MSA-related Yahoo!Groups, a minority of people could tolerate this medication but for that group the drug was very helpful.
The Michael J. Fox Foundation cautions that users of droxidopa should sleep with their head and upper body elevated as the medication can increase one’s blood pressure when lying down.
Robin