Key takeaways
Fludrocortisone (generic, brand name Florinef no longer available) and midodrine (generic, brand name Proamatine no longer available) are both prescription medications, but they treat different conditions and belong to different drug classes. Fludrocortisone is a corticosteroid used to treat Addison's disease and congenital adrenal hyperplasia by maintaining the balance of sodium, potassium, and water in your body. It is typically taken once daily and can cause side effects like high blood pressure and swelling. On the other hand, midodrine is an alpha-1 adrenergic receptor agonist used to treat orthostatic hypotension by tightening blood vessels to raise blood pressure. You need to take midodrine three times a day while upright, as it can dangerously raise blood pressure if taken while lying down. Unlike fludrocortisone, midodrine does not cause weight gain but can cause tingling sensations and goosebumps. Both medications are available in generic forms, making them more affordable options.
