Drugs for Low Blood Pressure

Angiotensin II is a synthetic human vasoconstrictor which is prescribed for increasing blood pressure in adult patients to treat low blood pressure with septic shock or distributive shock. Angiotensin II also stimulates the release of another hormone known as aldosterone which promotes the retention of sodium in the kidney and contributes to the rise in blood pressure.

Cilnidipine is a calcium antagonist or calcium channel blocker prescribed to treat the high blood pressure in patients with essential hypertension. In contrast to most other calcium channel blockers, cilnidipine blocks two types of calcium channels – the L type channels in the blood vessels and the N type channels in the nervous tissue. It relaxes the blood vessels, therefore reducing the stress on the heart. It is approved for use in some countries including India, but not in the United States.

Mephentermine is a cardiac stimulant, prescribed for hypotension (low blood pressure).

Midodrine is an antihypotensive and vasopressor, prescribed for orthostatic hypotension (low blood pressure when standing) and narrowing of the blood vessel, which leads to an increase in blood pressure. It is also prescribed for chronic fatigue syndrome (condition characterized by low stamina, fatigue, muscle pain and depression).

Norepinephrine is prescribed for low blood pressure (hypotension) that can occur with certain medical conditions or surgical procedures. It is often used during CPR (cardio-pulmonary resuscitation). It is a catecholamine with multiple roles including as a hormone and a neurotransmitter.

Phenylephrine is a selective alpha agonist, used to increase blood pressure and topically as a nasal decongestant. It is also used in the eye to dilate the pupil or to constrict superficial blood vessels in eye allergy.

Terlipressin is an analogue of vasopressin, prescribed for bleeding esophageal varices, septic shock, hepatorenal syndrome and in management of low blood pressure.