List of drugs causing postural hypotension

Possible contributors include blood pressure tablets, water tablets, alpha blockers, nitrates, some heart medicines, sedatives, medicines for Parkinson’s disease and some antidepressants. The effect may be stronger after a new prescription, a dose increase, illness, sweating or not drinking enough.

Postural hypotension means pressure falls after moving upright. It can cause Dizziness, blurred vision, weakness, nausea or a brief loss of consciousness. The medicine may be one factor among several, so do not assume that every episode has the same cause.

Rise in stages: sit on the bed first, move your feet, then stand while holding something stable. Drink fluids if your clinician has not restricted them, avoid sudden standing after a large meal and keep walkways clear. Record when symptoms happen and list every prescribed, non-prescription and herbal product.

Arrange a GP Consultation for repeated symptoms, falls or a recent medicine change. A clinician may compare blood pressure lying and standing, review the prescription and look for dehydration, anaemia or another underlying problem.

Get urgent help after fainting with injury, chest pain, severe breathlessness, a new irregular heartbeat, confusion or one-sided weakness. Seek prompt advice for repeated near-faints, black stools or symptoms that occur while sitting or lying down.

Ask whether any medicine or combination could be lowering your pressure, whether timing can be changed and whether you need lying-and-standing measurements or blood tests. Ask how much fluid is suitable for you and how to respond if symptoms recur.