Hypertension:
Indications for: Methyldopa
Hypertension.
Adult Dosage:
Initially 250mg 2–3 times daily; titrate at intervals of at least 2 days. Concomitant antihypertensives other than thiazides: initial max 500mg/day. Maintenance: 500mg–2g/day in 2–4 divided doses; max 3g/day.
Children Dosage:
Initially 10mg/kg per day in 2–4 divided doses; max 65mg/kg or 3g daily (whichever is less).
Methyldopa Contraindications:
Active hepatic disease. History of methyldopa-associated liver dysfunction. Concomitant MAOIs.
Methyldopa Warnings/Precautions:
Hepatic or renal dysfunction. Pheochromocytoma. Severe cerebrovascular disease. Monitor blood and liver function. Discontinue if fever, jaundice, liver dysfunction, worsening edema or heart failure occurs. Surgery. Pregnancy (Cat.B). Nursing mothers.
Methyldopa Classification:
Central alpha agonist.
Methyldopa Interactions:
MAOIs: see Contraindications. Antagonized by oral iron preps: not recommended. May potentiate antihypertensives, general anesthetics, lithium. May interfere with lab tests.
Adverse Reactions:
Sedation, headache, asthenia, orthostatic hypotension, bradycardia, edema, GI upset, rash, nasal congestion, arthralgia, amenorrhea, hyperprolactinemia, gynecomastia, pancreatitis, impotence, decreased libido, CNS effects, eosinophilia, liver dysfunction, jaundice, (+) Coombs test, hemolytic anemia; rarely: fatal hepatic necrosis, blood dyscrasias.
Note:
Formerly known under the brand name Aldomet.
How Supplied:
Tabs—100
