About methyldopa
Central alpha-2 adrenergic agonist
Used for
- High blood pressure, including during pregnancy
Usual adult dose
Usually 250 mg two or three times daily initially; adjusted to blood pressure, up to 3 g daily.
Usual dose in children
Usually 10 mg/kg daily in two to four doses; adjusted as needed, maximum 65 mg/kg or 3 g daily.
Common side effects
- Sleepiness or dizziness
- Weakness or headache
- Dry mouth
- Liver problems or low blood-cell counts
Important warnings
- May cause drowsiness; avoid driving until effects are known.
- Can cause liver injury or rarely blood disorders; monitoring may be needed.
- May worsen depression or cause a slow heartbeat or low blood pressure.
- Do not stop suddenly without medical guidance.
Pregnancy
Used for high blood pressure during pregnancy when prescribed; extensive experience has not shown a major birth-defect risk.
Breastfeeding
Generally compatible with breastfeeding; small amounts enter milk. Monitor infants for unusual sleepiness or poor feeding.
Interactions
- Iron supplements can reduce absorption.
- Lithium toxicity may increase.
- Other blood-pressure medicines can increase low blood pressure.
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors should not be combined.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.