Methyldopa
About
Methyldopa belongs to a class of medicines called anti-hypertensives used in managing and treating hypertension. Hypertension (high blood pressure) is a condition in which the force exerted by the blood against the arterial walls becomes so high. If it is left untreated, will lead to various heart conditions.
Methyldopa contains Methyldopa, a vasodilator. It works by relaxing the blood vessels so that blood can flow more easily throughout the body. Thus, it treats blood pressure effectively.
Methyldopa should be taken as recommended by the doctor. Sometimes, it may cause common side effects such as headaches, muscle weakness, swollen ankles or feet, upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhoea, gas and dry mouth. Most of these side effects do not require medical attention and gradually resolve over time. However, if the side effects persist, please consult your doctor.
Do not use Methyldopa if you have hypersensitivity to the active ingredient or any excipients in Methyldopa. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is necessary to inform your doctor before using the Methyldopa. Before taking Methyldopa, tell your doctor about your medical history and other medications you are currently taking to rule out any potential negative effects. Do not use this medication unless prescribed by the doctor.
Uses of Methyldopa
Medicinal Benefits
Methyldopa contains Methyldopa, an anti-hypertensive used to treat Hypertension (mild, moderate or severe). It works by relaxing the blood vessels so that blood can flow more easily through the body. Thus it helps to treat or prevent many complications caused by high blood pressure.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Methyldopa
- Headaches
- Muscle weakness
- Swollen ankles or feet
- Upset stomach
- Sedation
- Weakness
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Gas
- Dry mouth
In-Depth Precautions and Warning
Drug Warnings
Inform your doctor about all of your health issues, food sensitivities, and ongoing medicines before taking the Methyldopa. Do not use Methyldopa if you have hypersensitivity to the active ingredient or any excipients in this medicine. You should not take Methyldopa if breastfeeding or pregnant unless a doctor has recommended it. Inform your doctor if you have any of the following conditions: active hepatic diseases, such as acute hepatitis and active cirrhosis; depression; being treated with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs); a catecholamine-secreting tumour, such as phaeochromocytoma or paraganglioma; or porphyria (Disorders resulting from a build-up of certain chemicals related to red blood cell proteins).
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor if you are taking antibacterial medications (e.g. furazolidone), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (e.g. phenelzine, isocarboxazid, rasagiline), anti-fungal medication (e.g. ketoconazole, levoketoconazole), antirheumatic drug (e.g. Leflunomide), cholesterol-lowering medications (e.g. lomitapide, mipomersen), and chemotherapy medication (e.g. procarbazine).
Drug-Food Interactions: Avoid consumption of alcoholic beverages.
Drug-Disease Interactions: Methyldopa may interact with various disease conditions, including liver, hepatic, depression, neuroblastoma (a catecholamine-secreting tumour), porphyria (Disorders resulting from a build-up of certain chemicals related to red blood cell proteins).
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
unsafeAvoid alcohol consumption while on treatment with Methyldopa. The antihypertensive effect of methyldopa may be amplified when combined with alcohol.
Pregnancy
cautionIf you are pregnant or planning pregnancy, inform your doctor before taking Methyldopa. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks before prescribing Methyldopa. It should be used under close medical supervision to treat hypertension during pregnancy.
Breast Feeding
cautionMethyldopa appears in breast milk. The use of the drug in breastfeeding mothers requires that anticipated benefits be weighed against possible risks. Hence, if you are a nursing mother, inform your doctor before receiving Methyldopa. Your doctor may prescribe this medicine if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Driving
cautionMethyldopa may cause sedation and sleepiness. Hence, do not drive or operate machines while on treatment with this medicine.
Liver
cautionIf you have a pre-existing or a history of liver disease, inform your doctor before taking Methyldopa. Your doctor may adjust the dose of this medicine or prescribe a suitable alternative based on your condition.
Kidney
cautionIf you have a pre-existing or a history of kidney diseases, inform your doctor before taking Methyldopa. Your doctor may adjust the dose of this medicine based on your condition.
Children
consult your doctorLimited information is available regarding the usage of Methyldopa in children, so please consult a doctor for more information.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Maintain a well-balanced and healthy diet that includes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, omega-3-rich foods, and lean protein sources.
- Keep your weight under control with a BMI of 19.5-24.9.
- Avoid chronic stress, as it can raise your blood pressure.
- Spend time with your loved ones to cope with stress and practice mindfulness techniques.
- Be mindful of salt; consume no more than 2,300 mg each day.
- Limit or avoid alcohol consumption.
- Quitting smoking is the best strategy to lower the risk of heart disease.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Hypertension: Blood pressure is the measurement of the heart's force to pump blood to all parts of the body. Hypertension is a chronic condition in which blood pressure is too high. This condition can lead to hardened arteries (blood vessels), decreasing the blood and oxygen flow to the heart. Raised blood pressure can cause chest pain (angina) and heart attack (when the blood supply to the heart is blocked). High blood pressure also causes brain damage (stroke) and kidney failure. Normal blood pressure lies between 90/60 mm of Hg and 120/80 mm of Hg. If the blood pressure is 140/90 mmHg or greater, it is considered hypertension.
FAQs
Methyldopa contains Methyldopa, a vasodilator that works by relaxing the blood vessels so that blood can flow more easily through the body. Thus, it treats high blood pressure effectively.
Methyldopa may cause diarrhoea as a common side effect. However, if the condition persists or worsens, please inform your doctor.
Interaction with haloperidol has been reported. So, do not use these medicines together unless prescribed by the doctor. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and potential risks before prescribing them.
Yes, Methyldopa is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to this medicine's methyldopa or other ingredients (particularly those with hepatic problems linked to prior methyldopa medication) or those with paraganglioma, a neuroendocrine tumour, or porphyria (disorders brought on by the accumulation of certain chemicals connected to red blood cell proteins).
You are not recommended to stop using Methyldopa without consulting your doctor as it may worsen the condition or cause recurring symptoms. Therefore, take Methyldopa for as long as your doctor has prescribed it, and if you experience any difficulty while taking Methyldopa, please consult your doctor.