Medicines
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Brand: Aldomet, Dopamet, Novomedopa
Methyldopa is an antihypertensive drug that acts centrally to reduce blood pressure. It's classified as a centrally acting alpha-2 adrenergic agonist. It works by stimulating alpha-2 adrenergic receptors in the brainstem, which leads to a decrease in sympathetic outflow and a reduction in peripheral vascular resistance, resulting in lower blood pressure. Methyldopa is primarily used to treat hypertension, particularly in pregnancy.
For treating hypertension, especially in pregnancy.
Methyldopa can cause potentially fatal liver disorders. Patients should be monitored for fever, jaundice, or other signs of liver dysfunction. Positive Coombs tests, hemolytic anemia, and other blood dyscrasias have been reported.
Outcome:
Severe hypertension
Mechanism:
Additive effects on blood pressure regulation.
Outcome:
Reduced antihypertensive effect
Mechanism:
Inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis.
Outcome:
Slightly decreased absorption of methyldopa
Mechanism:
Altered gastric pH.
Most likely new formulation: Extended-release oral formulation for improved patient compliance (Year 2026, 70% confidence)
Based on historical usage patterns and current trends, the likelihood of methyldopa remaining a prescribed medication for hypertension in pregnant women is 85%.
Antihypertensive, Centrally Acting Alpha-2 Adrenergic Agonist
Catecholamine derivative