Methyldopa
Molecule Description
Methyldopa is useful in the treatment of high blood pressure. It belongs to the
class of antihypertensives.
Uses of Methyldopa
Methyldopa is mainly used in the treatment of high blood pressure.
Contraindications of Methyldopa
When should one not use Methyldopa
- Allergic to Methyldopa or any other excipients of the product
- Liver disease such as acute hepatitis (inflammation of the liver) and active cirrhosis (damaged liver tissues)
- Medication for depression called MAO Inhibitors
- Tumors in kidney like phaeochromocytoma or paraganglioma
Side effects of Methyldopa
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Itching, hives, rash
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
- Weight gain
- Slow heart rate
- Nausea, low appetite, dark urine, jaundice, indicating liver damage
- Easy bruising
- Swelling of hands and feet
- Weight gain
- Head pain
- Joint pain
- Drowsiness
- Weakness
- Dry mouth
- Diarrhea, constipation, bloating
- Menstrual disturbances
- Breast swelling
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
Precautions and Warnings of Methyldopa
Pregnancy
Q:
Can I take Methyldopa during pregnancy?
A:
There were no harmful effects observed while Methyldopa was taken during pregnancy. However, the possible risks to a foetus cannot be ignored and your doctor should closely monitor you if you are taking Methyldopa while you are pregnant.
Breast Feeding
Q:
Can I take Methyldopa while breastfeeding?
A:
Methyldopa can be taken during breastfeeding. Your doctor will tell you about the use of Methyldopa after assessing the benefits of Methyldopa over risks.
Driving
Q:
Can I drive if I have consumed Methyldopa?
A:
Taking this medicine may cause dizziness, sleepiness or tiredness. If this happens to you, please do not drive.
Alcohol
Q:
Can I consume alcohol with Methyldopa?
A:
It is advised not to drink alcohol if you are taking this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further information.
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
- You have haemolytic anaemia (abnormal breakdown of red blood cells)
- You have fever, abnormal liver function or jaundice the treatment should be withdrawn
- You have a history of liver disease
- You are taking medicines called anesthesia, the dose of anesthetics should be reduced
- You are on dialysis and have had a history of blood pressure you may develop blood pressure again
Mode of Action of Methyldopa
How Does It Work?
Methyldopa relaxes our blood vessels and helps the heart to beat slowly, thereby decreasing the blood pressure.
Interactions of Methyldopa
Interactions with other medicines
Lithium, Phenothiazines, Tricyclic Antidepressants, MAOIs (a medicine used to treat depression) and other antihypertensive drugs.
Interactions with food items
No information is available on interactions when taken with food, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further information.
Dietary Restrictions of Methyldopa
No information is available on dietary restrictions while you are taking Methyldopa, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further details.
Dosage of Methyldopa
Overdose
Overdose results in low blood pressure, excessive sedation, weakness, slow heartbeat, dizziness, light-headedness, constipation, distension, flatus (gas in or from stomach or intestine), diarrhea, nausea and vomiting....
Missed a Dose
Do not take a double dose if you have missed the dose; take the next dose as soon as you remember.
Content Details
WRITTEN BY
Dr. Arpit Verma
MBBS, MD CCEBDM Diabetology
REVIEWED BY
Dr. Ritu Budania
MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What should I discuss with my healthcare expert before taking Methyldopa?
- Inform the doctor about your detailed medical & surgical history
- Inform the physician about the list of medicines that you have been taking because some medicines are known to interact with this medicine
References
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