Exploring the Efficacy of Midodrine for Tapering Off Vasopressors

Cureus. 2024 Feb 28;16(2):e55192. doi: 10.7759/cureus.55192. eCollection 2024 Feb.

Abstract

Sepsis and septic shock represent critical conditions, often necessitating vasopressor support in the intensive care unit (ICU). Midodrine, an oral vasopressor, has gathered attention as a potential adjunct to vasopressor therapy, aiming to facilitate weaning and improve clinical outcomes. However, the efficacy of midodrine remains questionable, with conflicting evidence from clinical trials and meta-analyses. This article provides a comprehensive review of the literature on midodrine's role in ICU settings by gathering evidence from multicenter trials, retrospective studies, and meta-analyses. While some studies suggest a limited benefit of midodrine in expediting vasopressor weaning and reducing ICU/hospital stays, others report potential advantages, particularly in reducing mortality rates among septic shock patients. Ongoing efforts aim to address knowledge gaps surrounding midodrine's efficacy and safety.

Keywords: hypotension; icu; intensive care unit; iv; iv vasopressor; midodrine; sepsis; septic shock; vasopressor; weaning.

Publication types

  • Review