Methyldopa is primarily used to treat high blood pressure.

 

What is Methyldopa?

Methyldopa is an agonist of the alpha-2 adrenergic receptors. It reduces blood pressure by relaxing and dilating the blood vessels so that blood can flow more easily through them.

 

How should Methyldopa be taken?

Methyldopa can be administered orally (usually in the form of tablets or suspensions) or intravenously. It can be used alone or in combination with other drugs.

 

Side effects associated with Methyldopa

Among the possible side effects of methyldopa include the following:

 

  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Dry mouth
  • Headache
  • Weakness

 

You should contact your doctor immediately if you experience:

 

  • Rash
  • Urticaria
  • Itch
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Tightness in the chest
  • Swelling of the mouth, face, lips or tongue
  • Chest pains
  • Constant fatigue
  • Diarrhea
  • Muscle or joint aches
  • Swelling of the legs or feet
  • Unexplained fever
  • Vomiting
  • Weight gain
  • Jaundice

 

Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Methyldopa

Methyldopa may impair the ability to drive or operate hazardous machinery. This side effect can be further aggravated by alcohol or other drugs that cause drowsiness. In case of treatment with iron salts, it is necessary to take them at least 3 hours before or 2 hours after the intake of methyldopa.

 

Before starting treatment with methyldopa, it is important to tell your doctor if: 

 

  • You have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients or any other drugs or food
  • You are taking any other medications, herbal remedies or supplements. Mentioning in particular: other medications for high blood pressure, MAO inhibitors or lithium
  • You are receiving enteral nutrition
  • You are suffering (or have suffered) from liver or kidney disease, adrenal tumors, anemia associated with immune system problems, hemolytic anemia or other blood disorders
  • You are pregnant or breast-feeding

 

It is also important to inform surgeons and dentists of any ongoing treatment with methyldopa.

 

Lastly, the drug should not be given to children.