Methyldopa

Hypertensive crisis, Hypertensive disease, Therapeutic procedure
Treatment
1 FDA approval
18 Active Studies for Methyldopa

What is Methyldopa

MethyldopaThe Generic name of this drug
Treatment SummaryMethyldopa is a drug used to lower blood pressure. It is an analog of DOPA and needs to be converted into an active form in order to have an effect on the body. It works by binding to alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, which helps lower the activity of the nerves that control blood vessel constriction. First approved in 1960, it is still used to treat hypertension, although newer drugs are available that are better tolerated. Methyldopa is sometimes given as an intravenous injection when oral therapy is not possible or to manage a hypertensive crisis.
Aldorilis the brand name
image of different drug pills on a surface
Methyldopa Overview & Background
Brand Name
Generic Name
First FDA Approval
How many FDA approvals?
Aldoril
Methyldopa
1962
32

Approved as Treatment by the FDA

Methyldopa, otherwise known as Aldoril, is approved by the FDA for 1 uses like Hypertensive disease .
Hypertensive disease
Helps manage High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

Effectiveness

How Methyldopa Affects PatientsMethyldopa helps to lower blood pressure by targeting the body’s sympathetic nervous system and reducing the concentrations of certain hormones. It usually begins to work within 12 to 24 hours, and the maximum effect on blood pressure can be seen in 4 to 6 hours. The effects wear off after 24 to 48 hours when the drug is stopped. When taken intravenously, the effects can last for 10 to 16 hours.
How Methyldopa works in the bodyMethyldopa works by blocking nerve signals that cause blood vessels to constrict. It is metabolized into two active compounds that bind to receptors in the brainstem, which in turn reduces the output of signals to the peripheral nervous system. This creates a calming, vasodilator effect, which lowers the blood pressure. Methyldopa also blocks an enzyme called DOPA decarboxylase, which helps make neurotransmitters like norepinephrine, but this plays only a small role in lowering blood pressure.

When to interrupt dosage

The recommended measure of Methyldopa is contingent upon the diagnosed condition, including Therapeutic procedure, Hypertensive crisis and Hypertensive disease. The amount of dosage also is dependent upon the mode of delivery (e.g. Intravenous or Tablet, film coated - Oral) identified in the table beneath.
Condition
Dosage
Administration
Hypertensive disease
250.0 mg, , 500.0 mg, 50.0 mg/mL, 125.0 mg, 250.0 mg/mL
, Oral, Tablet, film coated, Tablet, film coated - Oral, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Intravenous, Injection, solution, Injection, solution - Intravenous, Liquid, Liquid - Intravenous
Therapeutic procedure
250.0 mg, , 500.0 mg, 50.0 mg/mL, 125.0 mg, 250.0 mg/mL
, Oral, Tablet, film coated, Tablet, film coated - Oral, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Intravenous, Injection, solution, Injection, solution - Intravenous, Liquid, Liquid - Intravenous
Hypertensive crisis
250.0 mg, , 500.0 mg, 50.0 mg/mL, 125.0 mg, 250.0 mg/mL
, Oral, Tablet, film coated, Tablet, film coated - Oral, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Intravenous, Injection, solution, Injection, solution - Intravenous, Liquid, Liquid - Intravenous

Warnings

Methyldopa Contraindications
Condition
Risk Level
Notes
Pulse Frequency
Do Not Combine
history of liver disorders caused by methyldopa
Do Not Combine
active hepatic disease
Do Not Combine
Severe Hypersensitivity Reactions
Do Not Combine
Methyldopa may interact with Pulse Frequency
There are 20 known major drug interactions with Methyldopa.
Common Methyldopa Drug Interactions
Drug Name
Risk Level
Description
Amifostine
Major
Methyldopa may increase the hypotensive activities of Amifostine.
Iobenguane
Major
The therapeutic efficacy of Iobenguane can be decreased when used in combination with Methyldopa.
Abacavir
Minor
Methyldopa may decrease the excretion rate of Abacavir which could result in a higher serum level.
Aclidinium
Minor
Methyldopa may decrease the excretion rate of Aclidinium which could result in a higher serum level.
Acrivastine
Minor
Methyldopa may decrease the excretion rate of Acrivastine which could result in a higher serum level.
Methyldopa Toxicity & Overdose RiskThe lowest amount of Methyldopa that has been found to be toxic in a female is 44 gm/kg taken intermittently. For rats, the toxic amount is 5000 mg/kg and for mice it's 5300 mg/kg. If someone overdoses on Methyldopa, they may experience low blood pressure, excessive drowsiness, slow heartbeat, dizziness, nausea and vomiting. Treatment for Methyldopa overdose includes gastric lavage or emesis, infusions, and monitoring of blood volume, electrolyte balance, and other body functions. Medications like levarterenol, epinephrine, and
image of a doctor in a lab doing drug, clinical research

Methyldopa Novel Uses: Which Conditions Have a Clinical Trial Featuring Methyldopa?

18 active clinical trials are currently evaluating the potential of Methyldopa to provide a therapeutic intervention, Hypertensive disease relief, and Hypertensive crisis management.
Condition
Clinical Trials
Trial Phases
Hypertensive crisis
0 Actively Recruiting
Therapeutic procedure
0 Actively Recruiting
Hypertensive disease
18 Actively Recruiting
Not Applicable, Phase 1, Phase 2, Phase 3

Methyldopa Reviews: What are patients saying about Methyldopa?

5Patient Review
10/12/2009
Methyldopa for High Blood Pressure
I was originally prescribed 250 mg twice daily, but my doctor increased the dosage to 500mg after three weeks in order to mitigate some of the more severe side effects (such as fainting). I have experienced dry mouth and dizziness at times, but those symptoms usually go away within a few days. I am also trying to conceive, so this medication was a better option for me than diovan. If you are thinking about starting this medication, I recommend talking to your doctor about slowly increasing the dose over time. This has worked well for me and has helped keep my blood pressure under control.
5Patient Review
10/14/2009
Methyldopa for High Blood Pressure
Methyldopa has been a great switch for me. I was originally taking Micardis, but I didn't like it very much. Methyldopa has had no negative side effects that I've noticed and my blood pressure has been excellent since starting this medication.
4.7Patient Review
6/4/2014
Methyldopa for High Blood Pressure
I was really lucky and didn't experience any negative side effects, except for my blood pressure going down. My nephrologist had me start taking it during my first pregnancy, and I took it for a few months after while trying to get pregnant again. So far so good!
3.7Patient Review
10/12/2009
Methyldopa for High Blood Pressure
3.3Patient Review
1/25/2016
Methyldopa for High Blood Pressure
I've been taking this medication for almost four years now, originally starting when I became pregnant. It's done a great job of managing my blood pressure, even during pregnancy. However, the only downside is that I feel constantly tired and fatigued.
3Patient Review
7/25/2018
Methyldopa for High Blood Pressure
I sweat excessively and feel incredibly sluggish when I even try to walk a short distance.
2.7Patient Review
2/5/2011
Methyldopa for High Blood Pressure
I began this medication when I became pregnant and was diagnosed with high blood pressure. The dosage was increased over time, but I still lost the baby. I'm wondering if there's a correlation here.
2Patient Review
9/8/2011
Methyldopa for High Blood Pressure
I had a litany of terrible side effects while taking this medication, which did not effectively control my blood pressure. I spent more time in the hospital than at home while on this medicine, and would not recommend it to anyone.
2Patient Review
5/7/2019
Methyldopa for High Blood Pressure
Unfortunately, this medication has caused more pain in my left side and chest tightness. I'm not sure what the next step should be.
2Patient Review
4/20/2013
Methyldopa for High Blood Pressure
My feet, ankles, and legs were significantly swollen.
1.7Patient Review
3/21/2013
Methyldopa for High Blood Pressure
I began this regimen yesterday, 250mg twice daily. I am feeling very ill and exhausted, to the point that I can't keep anything down. The pharmacy said to give it a couple days, but I'm not so sure. We are trying to conceive so they said this is my only route...
1.3Patient Review
4/28/2010
Methyldopa for High Blood Pressure
I started taking this medication because we are trying to get pregnant and I was told that it would be safe for my baby. After one week of taking it twice a day, my blood pressure had lowered to 110/78 from 174/102. I did feel a little sleepy and dizzy after the first few doses, but those results were worth it to me.
1Patient Review
11/14/2020
Methyldopa for High Blood Pressure
I've been on this medication for an extended period of time with no change in my condition. I've gradually increased the dosage as prescribed, and still see no difference. This is a total waste of time and money.
1Patient Review
11/28/2010
Methyldopa for High Blood Pressure
I developed hypertension and was put on this medication. After eight months, the dosage was increased 500mg three times a day. This medicine worked for a while to lower my blood pressure; however, I stopped responding to the medication after a while. I also experienced fatigue, mood changes, and dizziness as side effects which led me to switch medications.
image of drug pills surrounding a glass of water symbolizing drug consumption

Patient Q&A Section about methyldopa

These questions and answers are submitted by anonymous patients, and have not been verified by our internal team.

What is the most common side effect of methyldopa?

"upset stomach

The more common side effects of methyldopa include: drowsiness, headaches, lack of energy, and upset stomachs."

Answered by AI

Is methyldopa an alpha blocker?

"Methyldopa works by binding to alpha(α)-2 adrenergic receptors, which leads to the inhibition of adrenergic neuronal outflow and reduction of vasoconstrictor adrenergic signals."

Answered by AI

Is methyldopa a beta blocker?

"2. Over time, alpha-methyldopa will often lower the total peripheral resistance, but the decrease in cardiac output is usually small, both when resting and during exercise. The beta-blockers lower blood pressure, but also lead to a significant decrease in cardiac output and heart rate."

Answered by AI

Why methyldopa is used in pregnancy?

"Methyldopa can help lower blood pressure and prevent pre-eclampsia, which can cause problems like preterm birth, low birth weight, and serious illness for both the mother and baby."

Answered by AI

Clinical Trials for Methyldopa

Have you considered Methyldopa clinical trials? We made a collection of clinical trials featuring Methyldopa, we think they might fit your search criteria.
Have you considered Methyldopa clinical trials? We made a collection of clinical trials featuring Methyldopa, we think they might fit your search criteria.
Have you considered Methyldopa clinical trials? We made a collection of clinical trials featuring Methyldopa, we think they might fit your search criteria.