ALDOMET

SPECIFICATION

250Mg

Generics

Methyldopa

About

 The antihypertensive effect of methyldopa is probably due to its metabolism to alpha-methylnoradrenaline, which lowers arterial pressure by stimulation of central inhibitory alpha-adrenergic receptors, false neurotransmission, and/or reduction of plasma renin activity. Methyldopa has been shown to cause a net reduction in the tissue concentration of serotonin, dopamine, epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine (noradrenaline).

Indication

In the treatment of hypertension.

Side Effects

Digestive: Pancreatitis, colitis, vomiting, diarrhea, sialadenitis, sore or “black” tongue, nausea, constipation, distension, flatus, dryness of mouth.

Drug Interactions

Lithium: When methyldopa and lithium are given concomitantly the patient should be monitored carefully for symptoms of lithium toxicity.Other antihypertensive drugs: When methyldopa is used with other antihypertensive drugs, potentiation of antihypertensive action may occur. The progress of patients should be carefully followed to detect side reactions or manifestations of drug idiosyncrasy.Other classes of drug: The antihypertensive effect of 'methyldopa' may be diminished by sympathomimetics, phenothiazines, tricyclic antidepressants and MAOIs . In addition, phenothiazines may have additive hypotensive effects.Iron: Several studies demonstrate a decrease in the bioavailability of methyldopa when it is ingested with ferrous sulphate or ferrous gluconate. This may adversely affect blood pressure control in patients treated with methyldopa.

When not to Use

It is contraindicated in patients:— with active hepatic disease, such as acute hepatitis and active cirrhosis.— with liver disorders previously associated with methyldopa therapy .— with hypersensitivity to any component of these products.— on therapy with monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors.

Precaution

Patients may require reduced doses of anaesthetics when on methyldopa. If hypotension does occur during anaesthesia, it can usually be controlled by vasopressors. The adrenergic receptors remain sensitive during treatment with methyldopa.