Classes
DEA Class; Rx
Common Brand Names; Aldomet
- Alpha2 Agonists, Central-Acting
Description
Used most commonly for the treatment of hypertension during pregnancy
Less well tolerated in other patient populations; other antihypertensive classes have better tolerability for long-term treatment
Indications
Indicated for the treatment of hypertension.
Contraindications
Active liver disease, liver disorders associated with previous methyldopa treatment
Hypersensitivity to methyldopa or other ingredients (eg, sulfites)
Pheochromocytoma
Concomitant MAOIs
Adverse Effects
Angina
Bradycardia
Orthostatic hypotension
Depression
Dizziness
Lethargy
Sedation
Rash
Gynecomastia
Impotence
Dry mouth
Nausea
Vomiting
Hemolytic anemia
Thrombocytopenia
Liver toxicity
Arthralgia
Autoimmune disease
Lupus-like syndrome
Warnings
CHF, dialysis patients (increased risk of hypertension following procedure), edema, hemolytic anemia, hypotension, severe bilateral CVD, history of liver disease
Avoid abrupt withdrawal
Risk of decreased libido and impotence in men
May impair ability to perform hazardous tasks
Tolerance develops on prolonged treatment, especially if no concurrent diuretic (methyldopa causes Na and water retention)
Interferes with some lab tests
IM/SC NOT recommended due to erratic absorption
Pregnancy and Lactation
Pregnancy Category: B
Lactation: distributed in breast milk but not in clinically significant amounts; compatible w/ breastfeeding
Maximum Dosage
3 g/day PO or 4 g/day IV.
1 g/day PO or IV.
65 mg/kg/day or 3 g/day PO or IV, whichever is less.
65 mg/kg/day or 3 g/day PO or IV, whichever is less.
How supplied
Methyldopate hydrochloride
injectable solution
- 50mg/mL
tablet
- 250mg
- 500mg