Finding the Balance: Review of Pharmacological Management of Orthostatic Hypotension in Patients With Parkinson's Disease.

PURPOSE: Orthostatic hypotension (OH) is a common manifestation of Parkinson's disease (PD). Factors including autonomic dysfunction from the disease, use of PD medications, comorbidities, and aging can contribute to an increased risk of OH, which can be detrimental to patients' quality of life. Maintaining a fine balance to prevent harm related to OH and retain the benefit medications used to treat PD is crucial. The current article reviews various considerations in selecting and adjusting pharmacotherapy for OH in patients with PD.

METHOD: Current evidence and guidance on pharmacological strategies of OH in patients with PD were reviewed.

RESULTS: Current strategies include medication regimen review and adjustment of patient's medication regimen and single or combination pharmacotherapy (midodrine, droxidopa, fludrocortisone, pyridostigmine) used in addition to nonpharmacological strategies.

CONCLUSION: A patient-specific approach is needed to address OH in PD. Larger studies on safety and management of OH in PD are recommended given paucity of studies. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 50(12), 5-10.].