What is "midodrine"

n. A vasopressor/antihypotensive agent.

Midodrine (brand names Amatine, ProAmatine, Gutron) is a vasopressor/ antihypotensive agent. Midodrine was approved in the United States by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1996 for the treatment of dysautonomia and orthostatic hypotension. In August 2010, the FDA proposed withdrawing this approval because the manufacturer, Shire plc, has failed to complete required studies after the medicine reached the market.

In September 2010, the FDA reversed its decision to remove midodrine from the market and has allowed it to remain available to patients while Shire plc collects further data regarding the efficacy and safety of the drug. Shire plc announced on September 27, 2011 that it was continuing the process to work with the FDA towards a final approval of the drug.