Dihydroergotamine therapy in symptomatic postural hypotension.

The clinical response to therapy with dihydroergotamine (DHE) has been evaluated in one patient with idiopathic orthostatic hypotension. The results of tests performed on the autonomic nervous system are recorded, and the evidence for a central defect in postural blood pressure control is presented. Tilt table testing over a two-month period confirmed the beneficial effect of the medication in preventing profound falls of blood pressure. The dose required (20 mg/day) was higher than previously reported.