Methyldopa

Uses of Methyldopa

Methyldopa, available as an oral tablet, is primarily utilized to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). This medication aims to decrease blood pressure levels, ultimately minimizing the risks associated with strokes and heart attacks.

Precautions and Warnings

• Liver Disease Warning: Methyldopa can pose severe liver risks, potentially leading to fatal outcomes. It’s crucial to avoid methyldopa if you have liver disease, including acute hepatitis or active cirrhosis.
• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) Warning: Avoid taking methyldopa if you are using MAOIs, such as isocarboxazid, phenelzine, linezolid, or tranylcypromine.
• Blood Disorder Warning: Methyldopa is associated with hemolytic anemia, a critical blood disorder that can be life-threatening due to the destruction of red blood cells.

Dosage

• For Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): The starting dosage is 250 mg, 2–3 times daily in even intervals for the initial 48 hours. Dosage may increase, if necessary, up to a maximum of 3,000 mg per day.
• For Children (0–17 years): Initial dosage is 10 mg per kilogram of body weight per day, divided into 2–4 equal doses, with a maximum dosage of 65 mg per kilogram or 3 grams daily, whichever is lower.
• For Elderly (65+ years): Older adults may require adjusted doses due to potential slower drug processing, necessitating a lower dosage or different treatment schedule.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Drowsiness,
• headache,
• weakness,
• dizziness,
• nausea,
• swelling of hands/feet,
• weight gain might occur.

Serious Side Effects:

• Heart issues (chest pain, irregular heartbeat),
• low red/white blood cell counts,
• liver problems, severe allergic reactions,
• skin problems, 
• low platelet levels.