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Lookup NU author(s): Dr Claire Owen, Dr James FrithORCiD
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License (CC BY-NC 4.0).
This review examines the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions for managing orthostatic hypotension (OH), a condition prevalent among older adults. Current guidelines prioritise non-pharmacological methods such as physical counter-manoeuvres and compression garments as first-line treatments for OH. Conducting a comprehensive medication review to identify potentially causative agents, along with patient education, is highlighted as essential for optimising the efficacy of non-pharmacological interventions. The review addresses the potential pathophysiological underpinnings of OH, identifying neuro cardiovascular control, vascular insufficiency and the effects of ageing as key treatment considerations. Additionally, it highlights the importance of patient-specific factors, emphasising the strengths of individualised treatment plans. Limitations, including the challenges of heterogeneity in OH, patient adherence and inter-individual variability are discussed, alongside future research needs aimed at optimising these strategies. Effectively managing OH with accessible, cost-effective and low-risk non-pharmacological methods could benefit individuals with OH and help meet the growing healthcare demands of an ageing population.
Author(s): Owen CM, Frith J
Publication type: Review
Publication status: Published
Journal: British Journal of Hospital Medicine
Year: 2025
Volume: 86
Issue: 12
Pages: 1-17
Print publication date: 25/12/2025
Online publication date: 04/12/2025
Acceptance date: 27/02/2025
ISSN (print): 1750-8460
ISSN (electronic): 1759-7390
URL: https://doi.org/10.12968/hmed.2024.0956
DOI: 10.12968/hmed.2024.0956
PubMed id: 41443211
Data Access Statement: All the data of this study are included in this article.