What should I discuss with my healthcare expert before taking Methyldopa?

Methyldopa

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Molecule Description

Methyldopa is useful in the treatment of high blood pressure. It belongs to the class of antihypertensives.

Uses

Methyldopa is mainly used in the treatment of high blood pressure.

Contraindications

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

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

Pregnancy

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

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

Taking this medicine may cause dizziness, sleepiness or tiredness. If this happens to you, please do not drive.

Alcohol

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You have fever, abnormal liver function or jaundice the treatment should be withdrawn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

How Does It Work?

Methyldopa relaxes our blood vessels and helps the heart to beat slowly, thereby decreasing the blood pressure.

Interactions

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

No information is available on dietary restrictions while you are taking Methyldopa, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further details.

Dosage

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.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Inform the doctor about your detailed medical & surgical historyInform the physician about the list of medicines that you have been taking because some medicines are known to interact with this medicine

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