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Methyldopa - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

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Methyldopa Medication Information

Discover comprehensive details about Methyldopa, including its pronunciation, uses, dosage instructions, indications, and guidelines on how and when to take it or avoid it.

The updated prescription information covers potential side effects, precautions, warnings, and storage recommendations.

Additionally, explore the Methyldopa brands available in India and internationally, along with pricing information. For personalized advice, consult your healthcare provider.

Generic Name : Methyldopa
Pronunciation : meth ill doe' pa
ICD Code : Y51.8 Therapeutic Classification : Anti- Adrenergic Blockers - Centrally Acting

Brand Names or Trade Names of Methyldopa

India :

International :


Aldochlor 250, Aldoril

Why is Methyldopa Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an alpha-2 receptor agonist, prescribed for hypertension.  It reduces elevated blood pressure by dilating blood vessels.

When should Methyldopa not be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients with liver disease, on therapy with monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, and hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Methyldopa?

Adult- The usual initial dose is 250 mg two or three times a day in the first 48 hours. Maintenance: 500mg to gm in divided doses.
Child- Initial dosage is based on 10 mg/kg of body weight daily in two to four doses.

How should Methyldopa be taken?

It comes as a tablet and liquid to take by mouth, with or without food.

What are the warnings and precautions for Methyldopa?

• Caution should be exercised in patients with history of anemia, liver, kidney disease, tumor in adrenal glands, any allergy, who are taking other medications, elderly, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• It may cause drowsiness or dizziness, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.

• Avoid alcohol consumption.

• It should not be used in children.

What are the side effects of Methyldopa?

Heart - Aggravation of chest pain, heart failure, sinus hypersensitivity, low blood pressure, swelling or weight gain and slow heart rate.
Gastrointestinal - Inflammation of intestine/pancreas/ mouth, vomiting, diarrhea, sore or "black" tongue, nausea, constipation, distension, flatulence and dryness of mouth.
Blood - Bone marrow depression.
Liver - Liver inflammation, jaundice and abnormal liver function.
Hypersensitivity - Inflammation of heart muscle, blood vessels, lupus-like syndrome, drug-related fever and eosinophilia.
Central Nervous System - Parkinson’s disease, Bell's palsy, decreased mental acuity, involuntary movements, mild psychoses or depression, headache, sleepiness, weakness, dizziness, lightheadedness and tingling.
Metabolic - Rise in Blood Urea Nitrogen.
Musculoskeletal - Joint pain/swelling and muscle pain.
Respiratory - Nose stuffiness.
Skin - Skin damage and rash.
Genitourinary - Absence of menstrual periods, breast enlargement in male, spontaneous secretion of milk, impotence and decreased libido.

What are the other precautions for Methyldopa?

Avoid excess dosage.

What are the storage conditions for Methyldopa?

Store it in a well-closed container at controlled room temperature (15-30°C).

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