- How to use
- Can Methyldopa be used for high blood pressure in pregnancy?
- What is the mechanism of action
- Who should not use
- Possible side effects
- Does methyldopa make you sleepy?
Methyldopa is a remedy available in doses of 250 mg and 500 mg, indicated for the treatment of hypertension, which acts by reducing the impulses of the central nervous system that increase blood pressure.
This medicine is available in generic and under the trade name Aldomet, and can be purchased in pharmacies, upon presentation of a prescription, for a price of about 12 to 50 reais, depending on the dose and brand of the drug.
How to use
The usual starting dose of methyldopa is 250 mg, two or three times a day, for the first 48 hours. Thereafter, the daily dose should be defined by the doctor, depending on the person's response to treatment.
Can Methyldopa be used for high blood pressure in pregnancy?
Yes, methyldopa is considered safe for use in pregnancy, as long as indicated by the doctor.
Hypertension occurs in about 5 to 10% of pregnancies and, in some cases, non-pharmacological measures may not be sufficient to control the problem. In these cases, methyldopa is considered a drug of choice for the treatment of hypertensive disorders and chronic hypertension in pregnancy. Learn more about treating high blood pressure, including during pregnancy.
What is the mechanism of action
Methyldopa is a medication that works by decreasing the impulses of the central nervous system that increase blood pressure.
Who should not use
Methyldopa should not be used in people who are hypersensitive to the components of the formula, with liver disease or who are undergoing treatment with monoamine oxidase inhibitors.
Possible side effects
Some of the side effects that may occur during treatment with methyldopa are sedation, headache, dizziness, orthostatic hypotension, swelling, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, slight dryness of the mouth, fever, nasal congestion, impotence and decreased sexual desire.
Does methyldopa make you sleepy?
One of the most common side effects that can occur with taking methyldopa is sedation, so it is very likely that some people will feel sleepy during treatment. However, this symptom is usually transient.
