Idiopathic Orthostatic Hypotension

Six patients with idiopathic orthostatic hypotension were studied for the effect and mode of action of 9-alpha-fluorohydrocortisone. In 5 patients satisfactory symptomatic control of the hypotension was achieved. In 1 patient it was twice demonstrated that the rise of blood pressure obtained within 48 hours after starting treatment with 9-alpha-fluorohydrocortisone was accompanied by increased sodium retention and potassium excretion, as measured by metabolic balance studies. On long-term observation, while the improvement in blood pressure was maintained, no major alterations in water and electrolyte balance persisted.