Methyldopa

Drug Status in USA : Approved
Drug Status in Canada : Approved

pronunciation

pronounced as (meth ill doe' pa)

Why is this medication prescribed?

Methyldopa is used to treat high blood pressure. Methyldopa is in a class of medications called antihypertensives. It works by relaxing the blood vessels so that blood can flow more easily through the body.

High blood pressure is a common condition and when not treated, can cause damage to the brain, heart, blood vessels, kidneys and other parts of the body. Damage to these organs may cause heart disease, a heart attack, heart failure, stroke, kidney failure, loss of vision, and other problems. In addition to taking medication, making lifestyle changes will also help to control your blood pressure. These changes include eating a diet that is low in fat and salt, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising at least 30 minutes most days, not smoking, and using alcohol in moderation.


How should this medicine be used?

Methyldopa comes as a tablet and a liquid to take by mouth. It usually is taken two to four times a day. To help you remember to take methyldopa, take it around the same times every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take methyldopa exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Shake the liquid well before each dose to mix the medication evenly. Use a dose-measuring spoon or cup to measure the correct amount of liquid for each dose, not a regular household spoon.

Methyldopa controls high blood pressure but does not cure it. Continue to take methyldopa even if you feel well. Do not stop taking methyldopa without talking to your doctor. If you suddenly stop taking methyldopa, your blood pressure may increase and you may experience side effects. Your doctor will decrease your dose gradually.


What are the precautions to be followed?

Before taking methyldopa,
  • tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to methyldopa, any other medications, sulfites, or any of the ingredients in methyldopa tablets or liquid. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for a list of the ingredients.
  • tell your doctor if you are taking a monoamine oxidase (MAOs) inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar), and tranylcypromine (Parnate). Your doctor will probably tell you not to take methyldopa.
  • tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. Be sure to mention any of the following: haloperidol (Haldol), levodopa (in Sinemet, in Stalevo), lithium (Lithobid), other medications for high blood pressure, and tolbutamide. Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
  • do not take with iron supplements or vitamins containing iron.
  • tell you doctor if you have or have ever had kidney or liver disease, including hepatitis or cirrhosis.
  • tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking methyldopa, call your doctor.
  • talk to your doctor about the risks of taking methyldopa if you are 65 years of age or older. Older adults should not usually take methyldopa because it is not as safe as other medications that can be used to treat the same condition.
  • if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking methyldopa.
  • you should know that this medication may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery for 48-72 hours after you begin to take methyldopa or after your dose is increased.

What are possible side effects of this medication ?

Methyldopa may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
  • headache
  • muscle weakness
  • swollen ankles or feet
  • upset stomach
  • vomiting
  • diarrhea
  • gas
  • dry mouth
  • rash
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
  • unexplained fever
  • extreme tiredness
  • yellowing of the skin or eyes

Methyldopa may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while you are taking this medication.


How to store the medication and dispose it of after its use later?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store tablets at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). The liquid may be stored in the refrigerator or at room temperature. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.


Drug Category/Class

  • Antihypertensive Agents
  • Sympatholytics
  • Adrenergic alpha-2 Receptor Agonists
Prescribed For use in the treatment of hypertension.
Weight :211.2145
Structure Methyldopa
Generic Drug Methyldopa prescribed For use in the treatment of hypertension.
Formula

C10H13NO4

Methyldopa has 7 Brands listed


Aldopam (250 mg)Alphadopa (250 mg)
Dopagyt (250 mg)Emdopa (250 mg)
Gynapres (250 mg)Methyl Dopa (250 mg)
Sembrina (250 mg)

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