Methyldopa

About methyldopa

Methyldopa works by being converted in the body into a chemical that lowers blood pressure.

Many people with high blood pressure do not notice any signs of the problem. High blood pressure may however be damaging to the arteries and put a strain on the heart. By lowering the blood pressure, antihypertensives like methyldopa can reduce this risk. High blood pressure can also occur during pregnancy, although the reasons for this are not fully understood.

Methyldopa is the medicine of choice for treating high blood pressure in pregnancy as it is not harmful to a developing baby.

Before taking methyldopa

Before taking methyldopa make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from kidney or liver disease.
• If you have, or have ever had, depression.
• If you suffer from phaeochromocytoma (a growth on the adrenal glands), or porphyria (a rare blood disorder).
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take methyldopa

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take methyldopa exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Try to take methyldopa at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses. Methyldopa is usually taken two or three times a day.
• If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored. Your doctor may want to adjust the dose that you are taking.
• Do not stop taking methyldopa without first discussing it with your doctor.
• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
• Before having any medical tests, tell the person carrying out the test that you are taking this medicine. The results of some tests may be affected by methyldopa.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.

Can methyldopa cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store methyldopa

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines